More Than 100 Illegal Street Racers Cited In Mendota Heights

MENDOTA HEIGHTS, MN — With the coronavirus public health emergency restricting most social interaction, driving around in your car might be one of the few things people can do to get out-and-about now that the days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer.

In Mendota Heights, one such vehicle-related activity drew the attention of local police — in a big way. It's not like they weren't warned, either.

According to multiple reports, more than 100 street racers were cited in a single evening in Mendota Heights near the same intersection where a uniformed officer was hit by one such street racer in 2019, police said.

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"They drive recklessly, the neighbors complain, it’s alarming,” Mendota Heights Police Chief Kelly McCarthy said in a Saint Paul Pioneer Press report. “I kind of feel for them, I know they put in lot of time and money into their vehicles, but the traffic laws need to be followed."

According to Mendota Heights police, street racing gatherings are an annual occurrence. On April 5, Mendota Heights Police Chief Kelly McCarthy posted a bulletin on Facebook warning what would happen the next time street racers came to town.

"Waaayyyyy too busy of a night for a State that is under a stay at home order," the chief wrote. "Over 100 street racers driving recklessly on Lexington and highway 62 last night. Several jurisdictions dealt with this group and pulled over who they could and issued citations. If you are participating in such activities, you will receive a citation. Stay safe, stay home."

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