Child’s Death Prompts New Charge For Driver in Chisago County Crash

Mar 23, 2025

A Coon Rapids woman accused of causing a fatal head-on collision in Chisago County earlier this month is now facing a new charge.

A previous charge of criminal vehicular operation was elevated to criminal vehicular homicide following the death of a four-year-old child injured in the crash.

The charge stems from a March 14 incident on Rush Lake Trail in Nessel Township, where authorities responded to a two-vehicle crash with multiple injuries. According to the amended criminal complaint, a 2012 Chevrolet Cruze crossed the center line and collided head-on with a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica minivan. Law enforcement identified the driver of the Chevrolet Cruze as Ashlee Rose Klapperick, 36.

PREVIOUSLY: Driver Charged in Head-on Crash That Killed Child, Hurt 4 Others

Two small children were in the rear seats of the Chevrolet at the time of the crash. First responders found a four-year-old in a car seat, unresponsive and not breathing, with no detectable pulse. Emergency personnel performed chest compressions for approximately 11 minutes before detecting a faint pulse. The child was airlifted to Gillette Children’s Hospital and placed on life support. On March 20, medical staff discontinued life support and the child was pronounced deceased at 12:21 p.m.

A three-year-old child in the same vehicle sustained a broken collarbone and was transported by ambulance for treatment.

The minivan involved in the crash was carrying four occupants, including the driver and three children. All sustained injuries ranging from fractures and bruises to scrapes and burn marks. Witnesses told investigators the Chevrolet crossed into oncoming traffic, and the minivan driver attempted to avoid the crash by swerving. However, the Chevrolet allegedly corrected course just before the impact, causing a direct collision.

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At the scene, Klapperick reportedly told deputies she had briefly closed her eyes while driving. A drug recognition expert on site noted visible signs of impairment and observed indicators consistent with recent methamphetamine use. Klapperick admitted to using methamphetamine a couple of days prior and marijuana the day before. A search of the vehicle uncovered drug paraphernalia and a crystal-like substance that tested positive for methamphetamine. A blood sample was collected from Klapperick under a warrant and lab results are pending.

The upgraded charge of criminal vehicular homicide carries a potential penalty of up to ten years in prison. Klapperick also faces a multitude of felony and gross misdemeanor charges for injuries to the other individuals involved. Klapperick’s bail was increased from $150,000 to $200,000 with conditions including no driving, random testing and no alcohol or controlled substance use. Her next court appearance is scheduled for early April.

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