Prosecutor alleges speed, negligence

A 23-year-old Albert Lea man is facing a charge of criminal vehicular homicide after a fatal head-on crash in December on Minnesota Highway 109 between Alden and Wells.

Faribault County District Court records allege Jared Scott Bowman was driving eastbound on the highway more than 15 mph over the speed limit in a 2003 GMC Sierra pickup when he reportedly crossed over the center line and collided with a 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier driving westbound.

The Cavalier’s driver, Ronald L. Hinderman, 49, of Mankato, ultimately died from injuries he sustained in the crash.

The crash took place Dec. 10.

According to court documents, the State Patrol interviewed an eye witness to the crash, who had been traveling westbound when he noticed Bowman’s oncoming pickup.

The witness said he had to drive onto the shoulder to avoid colliding with the pickup and that as he passed, he could see Bowman facing to his right side and looking down at something.

After he passed the pickup, Bowman reportedly continued crossing over into the westbound lane until he was half-way into the lane. That’s when he collided with Hinderman’s vehicle, according to the witness.

Records show Bowman was reportedly traveling 71 mph. They also showed Bowman did not apply his brake before the crash.

The court document alleges Bowman was driving in a “grossly negligent manner.”

Criminal vehicular homicide carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.