Reward increased for info on 2023 hit-and-run that killed Minnesota doctor
ONAMIA, Minn. — The family of a doctor killed in a hit-and-run near Mille Lacs Lake a year ago spoke alongside local officials on Wednesday, announcing an increase to the reward for information on her case.
A driver struck Dr. Cathy Donovan on the 40000 block of Highway 169 in Kathio Township around 5 p.m. on Nov. 13, 2023. She was walking her dogs at the time, and one of them was also killed.
Donovan's sisters marked the anniversary of her death — along with the chief of staff of the hospital where she worked, the Mille Lacs County sheriff and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Tribal Police chief — by announcing the original $10,000 reward offered for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case has been increased to $25,000.
"Nothing can compensate for the loss we suffered a year ago, but with your help your information we can finally get closure," said sister Christy Pemberton.
Multiple witnesses said they saw a dark grey, four-door car in the area of Donovan's death. Police only found a windshield wiper at the scene.
In January, authorities identified an Edina man's Tesla as a vehicle of interest in Donovan's death. Two months later, though, they ruled the vehicle out and sought new leads from the public.
"Not a day goes by since then that I haven't thought I need to talk to my twin," said sister Dr. Robin Councilman.
Anyone with information is advised to call Sgt. Jason Brown at 218-316-3026 or email him.
Donovan, 56, was a long-time provider at Mille Lacs Health System in Onamia and a mother to two.
