Witnesses Sought in St. Paul Central HS Student's Death

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Police in Saint Paul are looking for more witnesses after a teenager was struck by a truck and killed.

According to police, 17-year-old Isaiah Vinson was waiting to cross the street at the corner of Selby Avenue and Lexington Parkway with other St. Paul Central High School students. Police say Vinson was reportedly pushed into the street during some possible horseplay, and was hit by the passing truck.

Vinson was transported to Regions Hospital, where he later died.

The truck was driven by Douglas Bergstrom, 52. He has been cleared of any wrongdoing. He is in shock today and on paid leave for now. The initial investigation indicates speed, alcohol and driver inattention were not factors in the accident.

Owner of the Lady and the Lion Hair Salon, across the street, James Taylor worried about the number of students walking home along the well-traveled street. He says he would like police to slow traffic down.

“Everyday cars are zooming by, especially right after school,” said Taylor. “I knew sooner or later something bad was going to happen.

Since the incident, investigators have been interviewing witnesses. It is believed that many witnesses to the crash left the scene before officers could talk with them.

Investigators are working to track down and talk with everyone who was with Vinson at the time of or immediately before the crash.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Saint Paul Police Department Traffic and Accident Unit at 651-266-5722.