A domestic dispute between a couple led to the death of Janelle Marie Swenson, 42, a mother of three, when their truck collided with her vehicle last weekend, according to officials.
Jack Leroy Drumbeater, 41, faces charges of second-degree manslaughter and third-degree murder, while Kerri Ellen Hart, 38, who was allegedly driving the truck, has been charged with criminal vehicular homicide. Swenson died at the scene of the crash, the Minnesota Star Tribune reported.
Witnesses reported that Hart drove away at high speed after Drumbeater entered a gas station. Drumbeater then reportedly clung to the flatbed of the moving truck, eventually punching out the rear window to climb into the cab. Hart stated she was punched in the head and has no recollection of the events leading up to the crash, which occurred shortly after Drumbeater gained access to the cab.
Two and a half blocks from the gas station, the truck crashed into Swenson's car, trapping her inside and preventing first responders from rendering aid, according to witness accounts.
Hart told police she and Drumbeater had recently broken up. She claimed Drumbeater had appeared at her friend's residence and asked her to go for a ride, warning her not to leave.
Drumbeater reportedly possessed weapons in the truck, including an axe, bat, and club, and allegedly warned Hart against any sudden actions. While witnesses and camera footage indicate Hart was driving at the time of the crash, Drumbeater told police he was behind the wheel.
Officers discovered 1.4 grams of methamphetamine and paraphernalia in the truck. Drumbeater admitted to smoking methamphetamine that morning, while Hart claimed she had used it a few days prior but was attempting to remain sober.
The truck involved in the fatal collision was reported stolen by its owner, who arrived at the scene. In addition to charges related to the crash, Drumbeater faces drug possession and motor vehicle charges. He reportedly became angry when informed that Hart would also be charged in Swenson's death.
Hart sustained life-threatening injuries during the crash and was taken to the neuro-care unit at Essentia Hospital in Duluth. She was booked into jail several days later, according to the Star Tribune.
Janelle Swenson is survived by her husband, Josh Swenson, and their three children, Jayden, JD, and Josie. Her obituary describes her as an outdoorswoman with passions for fishing, hunting, motorcycles, and horse riding. She had recently become a grandmother.
Swenson's funeral was scheduled for August 29. Her obituary expressed gratitude to first responders and the strangers who provided assistance.
