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Accident – Death – Obituary News :
In a tragic incident that took place in the Aspen Court townhome area, located about 70 miles from Minneapolis, a Minnesota man has pleaded guilty to charges linked to a home fire that resulted in the death of his 79-year-old mother. Christian Thomas Dahm, 45, entered a plea of second-degree manslaughter during a hearing in Ramsey County District Court on Friday.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
According to reports from Pioneer Press and BNN Bloomberg, Dahm’s guilty plea was part of a plea deal with the prosecution. The deal allows his attorney to argue for a sentence outside of state sentencing guidelines. In addition, Dahm will be responsible for restitution of his home and neighbors’ homes damaged in the fire. He faces a potential prison sentence of up to 11 years for the second-degree manslaughter charge.
Tragic Outcome
The fire occurred on May 14, prompting firefighters to respond to the scene at approximately 11:30 p.m. local time. They rescued Dahm’s mother, Patricia Dahm, who was critically injured. Patricia later succumbed to complications from smoke inhalation and burns, as revealed by an autopsy.
Details of the Incident
Charging documents obtained by KSPT-TV and Pioneer Press indicate that Dahm’s father informed responders that his son initiated the fire. Dahm explained to investigators that he was working on a fishing pole over a pan of motor oil when the fire broke out. He had lit a cigarette with a torch, leading to the sudden ignition of the fire.
Legal Consequences
Currently serving time at Minnesota Correctional Facility-Stillwater for a probation violation related to a separate offense, Dahm awaits sentencing in May for his involvement in the fatal house fire. The incident has left a community in shock and mourning over the loss of a beloved teacher, Patricia Dahm.
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