Charges Filed in Boat Accident That Killed Minnesota Woman

DEVILS LAKE, N.D. (AP) — Criminal charges have been filed against a North Dakota man who was driving a boat that was involved in a fatal crash earlier this month.

KZZY-FM reports authorities allege Thomas Burns of Grand Forks was intoxicated during the early hours of August 9th. Prosecutors say he was driving a boat on Devils Lake that struck a tree about 30 yards from shore while traveling at over 30 miles per hour.

Burns has been charged with felony manslaughter, felony reckless endangerment and boating under the influence.

Twenty-six-year-old April Stenger of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota was killed. Three other passengers were injured in the crash.

Authorities say Burns registered a blood alcohol level that was more than double the legal limit.

The station reports Burns was arrested Wednesday.