Minnesota – A man involved in a crash that seriously injured a Hopkins teen has pleaded guilty to criminal vehicular operation. The incident occurred on March 5 along Highway 7 in Minnetonka, when Mohamed Aydarus Salad, 32, was behind the wheel of a Chevy Equinox that collided with Lauren Olson, a student from Hopkins, causing her significant injuries.
Speeding and Revoked License
Minnesota State Patrol troopers report that Salad was speeding at 96 miles per hour just before the crash, well above the 55 mph speed limit for that stretch of Highway 7. Additionally, Salad’s driving privileges were already revoked, meaning he was not legally allowed to be on the road at the time of the incident.
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Guilty Plea and Sentence
Salad has entered a guilty plea as part of a plea agreement filed in Hennepin County. By waiving his right to a trial, he agreed to serve 364 days in a Department of Corrections center. Following 180 days, he will be eligible for electronic home monitoring. The remaining 18 months of his sentence will be stayed over a period of three years. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 29, 2025.
Recovery and Community Support
In the aftermath of the crash, the Hopkins community rallied around Lauren Olson, who faced a lengthy and difficult recovery in the hospital. The support from her community has been instrumental in her healing process.
