St. Paul hit-and-run: Michael Kentrell Smith charged with vehicular homicide in death of Amber Deneen
Thirty-year-old Amber O. Deneen of St. Paul was killed in a hit-and-run after being struck while walking with her two dogs; police arrested 39-year-old Michael Kentrell Smith and charged him with vehicular homicide in Ramsey County. The complaint says Smith slowed but did not stop at a stop sign before striking Deneen, witnesses followed and honked as he fled, surveillance showed the SUV at a nearby Speedway inspecting a front passenger tire, and Smith told officers he thought he hit bike-lane cones and said, "I'm sorry man... I don't remember hitting nobody"; neighbors have planned a memorial and are calling for increased traffic enforcement.
Show source details & analysis (6 sources)
📊 Relevant Data
Non-Hispanic Black pedestrians experience a fatality rate 236% higher than non-Hispanic Whites, while Hispanic or Latino pedestrians experience a fatality rate 84% higher than non-Hispanic Whites nationally. ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin)) ([Injury Facts - National Safety Council](https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/road-users/disparities-by-race-or-ethnic-origin))
Motor Vehicle Fatality Disparities by Race or Ethnic Origin — Injury Facts - National Safety Council
In Minneapolis, Black residents make up 19% of the population but account for 26% of fatal vehicle crashes. ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf)) ([City of Minneapolis](https://lims.minneapolismn.gov/Download/RCAV2/29113/2022-Vision-Zero-Crash-Study.pdf))
2022 Vision Zero Crash Study — City of Minneapolis
From 2020 to 2024, over 81,000 new Americans moved to Minnesota, making immigration the primary driver of population change. ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade)) ([Minnesota Chamber of Commerce](https://www.mnchamber.com/blog/immigration-became-leading-component-population-growth-minnesota-decade))
Immigration became the leading component of population growth in Minnesota this decade — Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
In 2024, nearly 3,000 refugees resettled in Minnesota, or 52 refugee arrivals per 100,000 residents. ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota)) ([MN Compass](https://www.mncompass.org/data-insights/articles/past-present-and-future-immigration-minnesota))
The past, present, and future of immigration in Minnesota — MN Compass
Hit-and-run incidents show increased risk in early morning, poor light conditions, and on weekends. ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520)) ([PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22269520))
Factors associated with hit-and-run pedestrian fatalities and driver identification — PubMed
Heavy traffic volumes are more prevalent in disadvantaged socioeconomic areas, creating heightened risks for pedestrians. ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf)) ([Federal Highway Administration](https://highways.dot.gov/sites/fhwa.dot.gov/files/FHWA-HRT-25-035.pdf))
Exploring Risk Factors to Disparities in Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety — Federal Highway Administration
📌 Key Facts
- Ramsey County Medical Examiner identified the victim as Amber O. Deneen, 30, of St. Paul.
- The complaint alleges a dark-colored SUV slowed but did not stop at a stop sign before striking Deneen and her two dogs.
- Suspect Michael Kentrell Smith, 39, was arrested after officers stopped a dark-colored SUV matching the description at I-94 and Highway 52; he has been charged with vehicular homicide and was booked into the Ramsey County Jail.
- Surveillance video shows the SUV at a nearby Speedway where Smith inspected the front passenger tire, matching evidence at the scene; a witness said they followed and honked at the SUV but the driver did not stop.
- In a police interview Smith said he thought he hit bike-lane protection cones and told officers, "I'm sorry man... I don't remember hitting nobody."
- The Ramsey County Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case following the arrest, and Smith's first court appearance is set for Tuesday morning.
- St. Paul police announced targeted speed enforcement at St. Anthony Ave. & Aldine St., will deploy a speed trailer to collect speeding data and alert drivers, and cited state Toward Zero Deaths grant funding for enforcement on speeding, distracted/impaired driving, and pedestrian/bike safety.
- A community memorial is planned at 5:13 p.m. at the crash site; neighbors posted 'Slow down' signs naming Amber Deneen and are calling for stronger traffic enforcement. Police provided a tip line at 651-266-5650.
📰 Source Timeline (6)
Follow how coverage of this story developed over time
- Suspect identified as Michael Kentrell Smith, 39, and charged with vehicular homicide in Ramsey County.
- Complaint alleges Smith slowed but did not stop at a stop sign before striking Deneen and her two dogs.
- Witness says they followed and honked at the SUV; the driver did not stop.
- Surveillance video shows the SUV at a nearby Speedway where Smith inspected the front passenger tire, matching scene evidence.
- Smith told police he thought he hit bike-lane protection cones; in the interview room he said, "I’m sorry man... I don’t remember hitting nobody."
- First court appearance set for Tuesday morning.
- St. Paul Police will target speed enforcement at St. Anthony Ave. & Aldine St. and deploy a speed trailer to collect speeding data and alert drivers.
- Ramsey County Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case for potential charges after Saturday’s arrest of a 39-year-old St. Paul man.
- A community memorial is planned at 5:13 p.m. at the crash site; neighbors posted 'Slow down' signs naming Amber Deneen and are calling for stronger traffic enforcement.
- Police cited state Toward Zero Deaths grant funding that underwrites enforcement focused on speeding, distracted/impaired driving, and pedestrian/bike safety.
- St. Paul police arrested a 39-year-old man suspected in the hit-and-run and booked him into the Ramsey County Jail on suspicion of criminal vehicular homicide.
- Officers stopped a dark-colored SUV matching the suspect vehicle at I-94 and Highway 52 on Saturday afternoon.
- Ramsey County Medical Examiner formally identified the victim as 30-year-old Amber O. Deneen (reaffirmed).
- Ramsey County Medical Examiner identified the victim as Amber O. Deneen, 30, of St. Paul.
- Police reiterated the suspect vehicle description (dark-colored SUV) and provided a tip line: 651-266-5650.