Minneapolis Woman Pleads Guilty to Murder in 2024 Crash

Teniki Steward faces sentencing in April for killing two people in a high-speed collision.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Teniki Steward, a 40-year-old Minneapolis resident, has pleaded guilty to two counts of third-degree murder and two counts of criminal vehicular operation in connection with a 2024 crash that killed two people and injured a teenage bystander. The crash occurred when Steward allegedly ran a red light at high speed and collided with another vehicle, killing its occupants, 53-year-old Esther Fulks and 57-year-old Rose Reece.

Why it matters

The tragic crash has deeply impacted the north Minneapolis community, where Fulks and Reece were known as dedicated community members. The case highlights the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the importance of holding repeat offenders accountable to protect public safety.

The details

According to court records, Steward entered her guilty pleas on the scheduled start date of her trial. The crash occurred on December 16, 2024, at the intersection of Emerson and 26th avenues in north Minneapolis. Charges state that Steward sped through a red light and collided with another vehicle, killing Fulks and Reece, who were inside. A teenage bystander standing on the sidewalk was also injured, and Steward and a passenger in her vehicle were hospitalized.

  • The crash occurred on December 16, 2024.
  • Steward entered her guilty pleas on February 24, 2026.
  • Steward's sentencing is set for April 17, 2026.

The players

Teniki Steward

A 40-year-old Minneapolis resident who pleaded guilty to two counts of third-degree murder and two counts of criminal vehicular operation in connection with the 2024 crash.

Esther Fulks

A 53-year-old woman who was killed in the 2024 crash, described as a connected community member and mother of four.

Rose Reece

A 57-year-old woman who was killed in the 2024 crash, described as a symbol of selfless service and recognized for her leadership and contributions to her community.

Mary Moriarty

The Hennepin County Attorney, who expressed condolences to the victims' families and stated that the plea ensures Steward is held accountable and the community is protected from additional harm.

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What they’re saying

“Our thoughts are with Rose and Esther's families, as well as the wider community that feels their loss every day. The outpouring of love for both of them illustrates how much they meant to the people who knew them.”

— Mary Moriarty, Hennepin County Attorney (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Steward's sentencing is set for April 17, 2026, where the judge will determine her final punishment for the crimes.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact of reckless driving and the importance of holding repeat offenders accountable to protect public safety. The north Minneapolis community has rallied around the victims, Esther Fulks and Rose Reece, who were known for their dedication and contributions to the local area.