Clearwater, MN (August 29, 2026) – A four-vehicle crash on Interstate 94 east of Clearwater left three people injured on Thursday, August 27. The collision occurred around 9:40 a.m. near mile marker 176 in Lynden Township, according to an official statement.
The Acura RDX, Ford F-150, Pontiac Bonneville, and GMC Savana were traveling east when traffic ahead slowed. The vehicles then collided. Three people suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening. Denise Lynn Brown, 43, and Weston Louis Blanchard, 29, were taken to CentraCare Hospital in Monticello.
Karen Marie Heitzman, 46, and her 8-year-old passenger, Mason Wayne Heitzman, were listed with non-life-threatening injuries but did not require hospital transport, while the GMC driver and passenger were not injured. The roadway was dry at the time of the collision.
We hope everyone who was injured continues to recover well.
What Can Cause Chain-Reaction Crashes on Interstate Highways?
Chain-reaction crashes can happen when traffic slows suddenly, and several vehicles are traveling close together. A driver who does not have enough time or distance to stop may collide with the vehicle ahead, creating additional impacts.
Following distance can give drivers more time to react to changing traffic conditions. Maintaining a safe gap is especially helpful on interstate highways, where vehicles may be traveling at higher speeds.
Seat belts can also reduce the risk of serious injuries during a collision. Drivers and passengers should remain properly restrained whenever a vehicle is moving, including during slow traffic and short trips.
