Grand Rapids, MN (January 1, 2026) – A three-vehicle collision resulted in injuries to two people at the intersection of Highway 2 and Highway 169 in Grand Rapids Township, Itasca County. The crash occurred at approximately 6:18 p.m. and involved a Subaru Outback, a Ram pickup, and a Nissan Pathfinder.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash began when a 2011 Subaru Outback attempted a left turn across eastbound traffic while having a green light. A 2021 Ram pickup traveling eastbound with the right of way t-boned the Subaru, which then spun and collided with a 2024 Nissan Pathfinder that was waiting at the intersection.
Emergency responders, including Grand Rapids Police, Itasca County deputies, North Ambulance, and local fire crews, responded quickly to the scene. Medics treated two 18-year-old female occupants of the Subaru—identified as Emma Mae Vannet and Sarah Grace Figgins, both of Grand Rapids. They were transported to Grand Rapids Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The drivers of the Ram pickup, 45-year-old Joshua Edward Roulston of Mendota, IL, and the Nissan Pathfinder, 59-year-old Lynnette Lorray Laroque of Grand Rapids, were not injured. All involved were wearing seat belts, and no alcohol was reported to be a factor in the crash.
We send our best wishes to those recovering and commend the rapid response by local emergency crews.
Intersection Crashes in Minnesota
Crashes like the one at Hwy 2 and Hwy 169 highlight the risks associated with high-speed intersections, particularly where left turns across traffic are permitted. Despite having a green light, left-turning drivers must yield to oncoming traffic unless protected by a dedicated signal. In this case, the 2011 Subaru Outback’s attempted left turn in front of eastbound vehicles resulted in a T-bone crash—a type of collision often associated with serious injuries due to the angle of impact.
Intersections such as Hwy 2 and Hwy 169 in Grand Rapids are known for complex traffic patterns and higher speeds, which can increase the risk of multi-vehicle accidents, especially during evening hours when visibility is reduced. Even when airbags deploy, as in the Subaru, the force of a side-impact collision can cause substantial injuries to occupants.
Minnesota traffic officials emphasize the importance of left-turn safety and urge drivers to use caution when turning across major highways. Statewide, improper turning maneuvers remain a leading cause of intersection crashes, particularly those involving younger drivers.
If you or a loved one was injured in a crash at a Minnesota intersection, understanding your recovery options and seeking proper care is essential.
Traffic accidents can leave lasting effects—but support is available. Local Accident Reports helps injury victims throughout Minnesota connect with the medical and legal resources they need. From navigating recovery to protecting your rights, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get started on the road to healing.
