Trial Date Set for Rochester Drive-By Shooting Case

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- A trial date has been set for a man accused of driving a vehicle involved in a Rochester drive-by shooting earlier this year. 

Read More: Two Arrested for Drive-By Shooting at Rochester Intersection 

Rochester Police responded to reports of gunfire in the area of 41st St. and East Frontage Rd. Northwest on the morning of March 30. Officers found multiple spent shell casings at the scene, the criminal complaint says. 

The victim told law enforcement they were stopped behind a vehicle on southbound East Frontage Rd. and 41st St. 

The front vehicle then made a U-turn and an occupant in the front vehicle fired multiple gunshots at the victim’s vehicle, according to the police report. No injuries were reported. 

Get our free mobile app

The shooting suspects were identified as 27-year-old Torria Sims and 25-year-old Joseph Simmons Jr. Police arrested the Rochester residents around 10:45 on the morning of the shooting report. 

The criminal complaint said Sims admitted to firing the gun and claimed the discharged rounds were “warning shots.” 

During a hearing in Olmsted County Court this week Simmons Jr. pleaded not guilty to charges of aiding and abetting second-degree assault, drive-by shooting and terroristic threats. 

He demanded a jury trail which is tentatively scheduled to start in December. Sims, who is facing the same charges, is due to make her next court appearance later this month.

More Minnesota News:

• Two Arrested in Major Rochester Drug Trafficking Bust 
• Driver Hospitalized After Crashing at Southeast MN Roundabout 
• Stolen Vehicle Driver Captured Outside of Rochester Restaurant