Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - Charges have been filed against a Chatfield man who caused a traffic wreck that nearly killed a young girl and left her facing extensive rehabilitation.

Three counts of criminal vehicular operation have been filed against 39-year-old Joshua Jacobson in what investigators say was a drug-related wreck.

It happened Nov. 4th in rural Olmsted County when Jacobson failed to stop at an intersection and crashed into another vehicle, hitting the side where the toddler was in a child safety seat. Deputy Tracey Pagel arrived to find the girl’s mother performing CPR and the “child appeared lifeless.” Pagel took over the life-saving efforts and the girl’s pulse was restored.

According to the criminal complaint, the 3-year-old girl suffered a severe brain injury. She also had a lacerated spleen and liver and numerous other injuries. The complaint says the girl faces 18 - 24 months of “acute rehabilitation.”

Another deputy at the scene was aware Jacobson was “a meth addict” and noticed he was showing possible signs of being under the influence of the drug. A blood sample was taken and it showed traces of meth and THC in Jacobson’s system.

He has been ordered to make his first court appearance next month.

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