Investigation of Eden Prairie Chaplain in Hit-and-Run Incident

An investigation is underway involving a volunteer public safety chaplain from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, linked to a hit-and-run incident that occurred on August 21, 2025. The crash took place around 8:20 p.m. at the intersection of Mitchell Road and Chestnut Drive, where a vehicle struck a mother, Spogmai Kamawal, and her four children, resulting in severe injuries to her two-year-old daughter, Somaia, who remains in critical condition.

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The Minnesota State Patrol (MSP) has taken over the investigation to prevent any potential conflict of interest, as the suspect is affiliated with the Eden Prairie Police Department. According to a search warrant, the suspect admitted to being distracted by a text message while driving in the area of the crash. He reported hearing a "bump" but did not stop to check for damage or call 911. Investigators found a red Chevy Silverado parked at his residence, which exhibited fresh damage consistent with the incident. The vehicle's mirror assembly matched debris found at the crash scene.

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Spogmai Kamawal, 27, was crossing the street with her children, two of whom were in a wagon. While Kamawal and one child were treated and released from the hospital, Somaia was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries. As of August 24, her condition was critical, and no further updates have been provided by Eden Prairie officials.

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The Eden Prairie Police Department confirmed that the chaplain is no longer volunteering during the investigation. A spokesperson stated, "The investigation is ongoing, and we are cooperating fully with the Minnesota State Patrol." The city has also indicated a commitment to addressing crosswalk safety in light of this incident.

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Community members and local officials have expressed concern regarding pedestrian safety, particularly in crosswalks. Witnesses initially reported the suspect vehicle as a white sedan, raising questions about the accuracy of initial assessments and the need for improved safety measures at the intersection.

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There are discrepancies regarding the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run. While the suspect's red Chevy Silverado was identified, initial witness reports described a white sedan as the vehicle that struck the victims. The investigation is ongoing, and further evidence may clarify these conflicting accounts.

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The Minnesota State Patrol continues to investigate the incident, including analyzing the suspect's phone records and the circumstances surrounding the crash. The outcome of this investigation may lead to criminal charges against the chaplain, pending the findings of the authorities.

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