MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Steven Frane Bailey, 56, of St. Louis Park, a man who was driving under the influence and caused a fatal crash at a busy Minnesota restaurant patio, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to nine others, has entered a guilty plea to murder and additional charges. As part of his plea agreement, Bailey agreed to a sentence ranging from 25 to 30 years. His sentencing is set for July 28.
Prosecutors revealed Bailey’s prior five DUI convictions and his decision to drive into the crowded patio of the Park Tavern in St. Louis Park on September 1, with a blood-alcohol level over four times the legal limit, despite having regained his license. Bailey admitted guilt to two counts of third-degree murder for the deaths of Kristina Folkerts and Gabe Harvey, along with three counts of criminal vehicular operation. In court, Bailey acknowledged being aware of his intoxicated state before attempting to park at the tavern, hitting another vehicle, and inadvertently crashing into the patio.
This tragic incident has sparked discussions on the need for stricter DUI laws. The Minnesota Senate unanimously approved a bill on Wednesday, incorporating enhanced license revocation regulations for repeat DUI offenders and promoting the use of ignition interlock devices. The bill will undergo further review in a conference committee to reconcile differences with the House version passed last week.
