Three-Vehicle Crash Kills 18-Year-Old, Injures Passengers in Crow Wing County

A three-vehicle crash occurred near Cross Lake in Crow Wing County involving a northbound dump truck on County Road 1 and two SUVs turning onto or from County Road 66. The driver of the first SUV, an 18-year-old, was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts, while a front-seat passenger was airlifted in critical condition and a rear passenger suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The dump truck driver left the scene with their employer, prompting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances of their departure. Authorities are withholding the names of those involved pending family notification and continue to investigate the cause of the crash in cooperation with the Minnesota State Patrol. The incident highlights concerns about road safety and accountability following serious collisions involving commercial vehicles and passenger cars. The investigation remains active as law enforcement seeks to clarify the events leading up to the crash.