Executive Summary
- At least one fatality confirmed in a head-on crash on Highway 71 in Stearns County.
- The collision involved a southbound Kia Sportage and a northbound Dodge Durango.
- Road conditions were reported as dry at the time of the incident Friday evening.
- Identities of those involved are scheduled for release Saturday pending notification.
At least one individual was killed Friday evening following a head-on collision in Lake George Township, according to reports from the Minnesota State Patrol.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:13 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 71 and 265th Street. Investigators stated that a 2015 Kia Sportage, driven by a 63-year-old woman from Sauk Centre, was traveling southbound on Highway 71 when it collided with a northbound 2018 Dodge Durango, operated by a 55-year-old man from Osakis.
According to the official accident report, airbags deployed in both vehicles upon impact. Emergency personnel noted that road conditions were dry at the time of the incident, suggesting weather was not an immediate factor. The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, Elrosa Fire Department, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation assisted state troopers at the scene.
Investigative Outlook
The Minnesota State Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. With road conditions ruled out as a contributing factor, standard accident reconstruction protocols will likely focus on right-of-way adherence and vehicle mechanics. Authorities have indicated that the identities of the deceased and those involved will be withheld until Saturday at noon to allow for the completion of next-of-kin notifications.
