Hale Twp, MN (June 22, 2026) – Three people were injured following a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 7 and County Road 2 in McLeod County on Saturday, June 20.
The Minnesota State Patrol stated that a 2012 Ford Escape was traveling south on County Road 2 while a 2008 Pontiac G6 was heading west on Highway 7. The vehicles came into contact at the intersection at approximately 2:54 p.m.
The Ford driver, 74-year-old Ervin Bernard Smith of Hutchinson, was not hurt. The Pontiac driver, 56-year-old Eduardo Hernandez of Hutchinson, received non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Hutchinson ER. Two passengers in the Pontiac, 49-year-old Marisol Gonzalas and 13-year-old Zachary Hernandez, were also treated for non-life-threatening injuries at the same hospital.
Both vehicles’ airbags deployed during the collision. Investigators reported that road surfaces were dry at the time. All occupants involved were wearing seat belts, and alcohol was not suspected as a factor.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision.
We hope those receiving treatment make a full and speedy recovery.
How Intersections on Rural Highways Can Increase Crash Risks
Intersections where county roads meet state highways can present unique driving challenges. Traffic traveling on highways usually moves at higher speeds, while vehicles entering or crossing from side roads must accurately judge gaps and oncoming traffic before proceeding.
Several factors can contribute to crashes at these junctions, including limited visibility, driver distraction, misjudging vehicle speed, or failing to yield the right of way. Even under favorable weather and road conditions, a brief lapse in attention can lead to serious consequences.
Safety experts encourage motorists to slow down when approaching intersections, carefully scan for cross traffic, and remain alert to vehicles entering from side roads. Wearing seat belts, as the occupants in this collision did, can also help reduce the severity of injuries when a crash occurs. Continued awareness and cautious driving remain key elements in improving roadway safety at rural intersections.
