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Peter Cox

Three teens charged in death of another in a drug buy

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Three teenagers have been charged after they allegedly attempted to steal drugs from a 17-year-old, then ran him over with their vehicle, killing him.

According to court documents, they'd gone to a house in Andover Nov. 10 to buy marijuana from Tristan Robinson.

One of the passengers went inside to make the purchase, but didn't have enough money. As Robinson tried to take out a smaller amount to sell, the teen grabbed the bag of marijuana and dashed outside.

Robinson ran after him. Another teen in the vehicle allegedly pulled a handgun out and pointed it at Robinson.

As Robinson held the door handle, the driver, whom prosecutors identify as 19-year-old Loren Gafner, pulled away and dragged Robinson to the ground.

Witnesses said they heard multiple thumps as the car backed out of the driveway and sped away.

Robinson was pronounced dead at the scene.

Gafner has been charged as an adult with second-degree murder and criminal vehicular homicide.

The two passengers, 16 and 17 years old, have been charged as juveniles for aiding and abetting second-degree murder. The Anoka County Attorney's Office is petitioning for them to be tried as adults.

"A family has to bury a son because of the foolish acts of young people — over drugs and money," said Anoka County Attorney Tony Palumbo in an emailed statement. "For the potential gain of so little, the loss and consequences are substantial and will affect many people for the rest of their lives."