Fergus Falls Area Woman Arrested After DUI Crash With Children
Otter Tail County prosecutors say a Fergus Falls area woman was arrested after a single vehicle crash on Interstate 94 east of Fergus Falls on November 9, 2025, with two toddlers in the SUV. The high blood alcohol reading and prior DWI convictions have prompted criminal charges that could carry significant penalties and raise local concerns about road safety and child safety.
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Otter Tail County prosecutors reported that 40 year old Ashley Heitman of Ada was arrested after a single vehicle crash on Interstate 94 east of Fergus Falls on the afternoon of November 9, 2025. Authorities found her sport utility vehicle stopped in the westbound lane with significant front end damage. Two children ages 2 and 4 were in the vehicle and no injuries were reported at the scene.
Investigators allege Heitman showed multiple signs of impairment. A breath test recorded a blood alcohol concentration of .24, roughly three times the legal limit of .08. Officers reportedly found an empty margarita container and a partially full vodka mule bottle inside the vehicle. Prosecutors charged Heitman with two gross misdemeanor counts of second degree DWI, violating her license restrictions, and possessing an open container in a vehicle. She made an initial court appearance following the incident.
The incident touches on a number of concerns for local residents. Interstate 94 is a major east west corridor that carries commuters, commercial traffic, and people accessing lakes and recreation in west central Minnesota. A crash that leaves a vehicle stopped in a travel lane can endanger other motorists and emergency responders, and the presence of young children amplifies community concern. While no injuries were reported, the case underscores the risks impaired driving poses to families and public safety.
Heitman’s prior DWI convictions are a key factor in how prosecutors and courts may treat the case. Repeat offenses typically lead to enhanced scrutiny and can affect sentence exposure under state law. The current charges are gross misdemeanors, and the prosecution will present evidence and legal arguments in subsequent court proceedings. At this stage prosecutors have provided the arrest and charge information to the public and the case will proceed through the county court system.
For residents, the case is a reminder of ongoing enforcement and the legal consequences of impaired driving. It also raises questions for civic leaders and traffic safety organizations about prevention, child protection, and outreach to reduce repeat offenses. Local stakeholders, including law enforcement and county courts, will continue to balance public safety and legal due process as the matter advances.
Otter Tail County prosecutors and local law enforcement released the initial account of the crash and the charges on November 11, 2025. The community can expect additional court filings and hearings that will clarify how prosecutors intend to proceed and what penalties may be sought if convictions are obtained.
