Family of man killed in Maplewood hit-and-run asks for public’s help

Tuesday afternoon, the family of Mark Koepke joined police at Maplewood City Hall to ask for the public’s help.

“Losing someone around the holidays is very difficult for our family,” Darize Koepke, Mark’s ex-wife, said.

Darize said the holidays will no longer be the same without her late ex-husband, Mark.

“He spent every Christmas and Thanksgiving holiday with our family,” Darize said.

On December 9, Mark left his St. Paul home and went for a walk around 10 p.m.

Koepke, 56, was found lying on McKnight Road, near Margaret Street, at around 10 p.m. that night. Despite efforts from first responders, he died at the scene.

Maplewood police say they believe a dark blue Dodge Caravan, with a model year between 2011 and 2020, is the vehicle that hit Koepke, and they believe it likely has significant front-end damage on its right side.

“There is a possibility that somebody hit Mr. Koepke and didn’t know. We’re still trying to determine that,” Lt. Joseph Steiner, Maplewood Police department, said.

Police explained detectives have already reviewed video footage and interviewed people in the area, but they need the public’s help to find the suspect

Between the family and CrimeStoppers, a reward of up to $2,000 is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the person responsible.

The family said the suspect coming forward would help the Koepke family move forward.

“Clear your conscience. Give us some closure and justice for Mark,” Darize said.

Anyone with information that could help police find the vehicle that hit Koepke is asked to call 651-249-2608 or email Joe.Steiner@maplewoodmn.gov.