JUST THE FACTS

June 6, 2025 Volume 16 Issue 23

THIS WEEK'S IN CUSTODY ARRESTS

Makayla Phillips-Tucke was formally charged with theft of motor vehicle and failure to notify victim or police of a traffic accident stemming from a May 31st incident. This investigation started with a hit and run accident. Upon receiving ring doorbell footage of the suspect vehicle, it was identified as a Ford 550 pulling a trailer. Metronet Safety contacted the PD and advised one of their trucks GPS units was active during that time frame. The employee who works for Metronet Safety confirmed the truck was taken overnight by Makayla after reviewing his home surveillance system. Further evidence of Makayla was obtained from Kwik Trip as she was seen exiting the truck to grab some items in the store.
Luis Barajas Jr. was formally charged with domestic assault, fleeing a police officer in motor vehicle, and threats of violence stemming from a June 1st incident. Officers were called to the 700 block of Liinhaven Ln NE for a domestic disturbance. Officers learned on scene from witnesses that Barajas made a comment about a gun and thought he was going to kill his girlfriend. Another witness mentioned hearing a loud slap and crying. The suspect had left in a vehicle prior to officer arrival. Officers located the suspect a short time later driving in the area. Upon trying to stop the vehicle, Barjas took off which initiated a pursuit by Owatonna Officers. Barajas drove through some back yards and hit a garden structure, which disabled his vehicle. Barajas would not comply with commands. Officers used PepperBall projectiles and a less lethal 40 mm round to aid in the arrest attempt of Barajas. He ultimately exited the vehicle and was taken into custody. Barajas has a prior domestic conviction from 2012 and harassment from 2024.
Trevor Lutz was formally charged with 5th degree criminal sexual conduct and harassment restraining order violation stemming from a May 26th incident.

Let’s Make This the 100 Safest Days on Minnesota Roads

The stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day is the most traveled and deadliest time on Minnesota roads. While traffic deaths so far this year are lower than in 2024 at this time, yearly fatalities remain higher than before the pandemic. As we head into the busy summer travel season, we need to work together to turn the "100 deadliest days" into the 100 safest days on the road. Warmer weather and dry roads tempt drivers to speed and make other dangerous driving choices. This leads to increased fatalities, but smart choices behind the wheel can save lives.

Let’s work together to remind drivers to:

Stay off the phone – hands-free is the law.
Set navigation before driving or have a passenger help.
Pull over to eat or manage distractions.
Teach kids to be safe passengers.
Buckle up, always plan a sober ride and obey the speed limit.

Lead by example and encourage your friends, family and neighbors to drive smarter and safer.