Former Chaplain Pleaded Guilty to Eden Prairie Hit-and-Run
John Brecount admitted to fleeing the scene after striking a wagon in a crosswalk.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Accidents
John Brecount, 65, pleaded guilty to charges related to an August 2025 hit-and-run crash in Eden Prairie. The collision injured a two-year-old child who required more than a month of hospitalization.
Why it matters
The case highlights the dangers of distracted driving after evidence confirmed the driver was texting at the time of the collision. Brecount, who served as a volunteer chaplain for local first responders, failed to stop or contact emergency services.
John Brecount entered his guilty plea on October 5, 2026, for charges involving great bodily harm and leaving the scene. A sentencing and court hearing is currently scheduled for December 7, 2026.
The players
John Brecount
A 65-year-old former volunteer chaplain with the Eden Prairie Police and Fire Departments who pleaded guilty to hit-and-run charges.
Somaia Kamawal
A two-year-old victim who suffered a traumatic brain injury and broken bones after being struck by a vehicle.
The details
Brecount struck a wagon carrying a mother and her children in a marked crosswalk at 8:30 p.m. while the vehicle was in motion. The victim, two-year-old Somaia Kamawal, sustained a traumatic brain injury, organ lacerations, and multiple broken bones.
Timeline
Aug. 21, 2025: John Brecount struck a wagon in Eden Prairie.
Oct. 5, 2026: John Brecount entered his guilty plea.
Dec. 7, 2026: Next scheduled court hearing.
Legal Context
This case reflects the strict enforcement of hit-and-run statutes in Minnesota when incidents result in significant physical harm. It underscores the legal ramifications for drivers who leave the scene of an accident regardless of their prior professional community roles.
Residents are reminded of the critical importance of remaining alert in marked crosswalks, especially during evening hours. This investigation underscores the serious legal and physical consequences of distracted driving and the failure to render aid at a crash scene.
The takeaway
Drivers are reminded that using a cellphone while operating a vehicle significantly increases the risk of life-altering accidents. Always remain vigilant and stop immediately if involved in any collision to provide assistance and contact authorities.
What happens next
A court hearing is set for Dec. 7, 2026, where the judicial process will move toward final sentencing for the defendant.
Further reading
For more on local safety reports, visit the accidents archive.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Law & Crime.
