Prosecutors have escalated charges against a driver with three prior alcohol-related convictions and a cancelled license.

The charges stem from a fatal hit-and-run incident near the University of Minnesota that occurred last Thursday.

The suspect, identified as Ali Abas Samator, 30, is accused of driving under the influence when he allegedly ran a red light and struck a pedestrian in a crosswalk on November 7 before fleeing the scene.

According to the amended complaint, officers responded to the intersection of Cedar Avenue and Riverside Avenue following reports of a hit-and-run crash and found the severely injured victim lying in the street. Surveillance video reportedly captured Samator’s vehicle, a red Toyota Camry, running the red light and striking the victim, who had the right of way. The complaint stated there was no sign that Samator attempted to stop prior to the collision.

Officers located Samator nearby sitting in the Camry and observed multiple clues of alcohol impairment, including an odor of alcohol, bloodshot eyes, and poor communication. Officers also observed what appeared to be human hair embedded in the vehicle’s windshield.

Doctors at Hennepin Healthcare confirmed that the victim sustained catastrophic injuries, including fractures throughout the victim’s body, brain bleeds, and damage to the carotid artery. The victim died on November 10, despite extensive medical intervention.

Samator’s criminal history includes three prior alcohol-related driving convictions within the past decade. His driver’s license was cancelled at the time of the crash due to a prior incident in 2016.

With the victim’s death, the initial charges of criminal vehicular operation were elevated to criminal vehicular homicide, along with additional counts, including leaving the scene of a fatal collision and first-degree DWI.

Samator remains in custody in lieu of a $300,000 bond. Samator faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.

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