Brainerd, MN (January 31, 2026) -An early morning three-vehicle collision occurred on January 30th at the intersection of Highway 371 and Gull Lake Dam Rd in West Crow Wing Unorganized Territory, resulting in one person sustaining non-life-threatening injuries. According to officials, a 2006 GMC Sierra pickup heading northbound attempted to turn left into the Power Lodge Access Road but failed to yield to a southbound Chevy Silverado. The GMC Sierra was then struck by a southbound Waste Partners garbage truck. Emergency crews from Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office, Nisswa Police Department, Brainerd Fire Department, and North Ambulance responded to the scene. One driver was transported to St. Joseph’s Medical Center in Brainerd for treatment. The incident remains under review by state authorities.
Key Details
- Location: Brainerd, MN
- Where: Hwy 371 & Gull Lake Dam Rd
- Type: Injury Crash Reported
- Reported: January 30, 6:25 AM
- Injuries: Confirmed (1 non-life-threatening injury)
- Responding Agency: Crow Wing County SO, Nisswa PD, Brainerd Fire, North Ambulance
What We Know So Far
- The GMC Sierra driver attempted a left turn and failed to yield to an oncoming vehicle.
- The vehicle was struck by a Chevy Silverado and then a garbage truck.
- One person was transported to a healthcare facility with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Emergency services from multiple agencies responded to the crash site.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Whether any citations were issued in connection with the crash
- The estimated duration of lane closures, if any
- Whether additional safety reviews will be conducted at the intersection
- Whether traffic camera footage will be used in the investigation
Local Context
Highway 371 is a key corridor through the Brainerd Lakes region, with Gull Lake Dam Rd providing access to nearby residential areas and recreational destinations. The location of the crash near the Power Lodge Access Road adds to the complexity, especially during morning traffic when visibility and turn timing are crucial. Emergency crews from local and county agencies often respond rapidly to incidents along this stretch, where a mix of commercial, local, and recreational traffic converges. With dry road conditions noted at the time, investigators will likely focus on driver decisions and right-of-way adherence as they complete their official review.
What to Do Next
- Follow directions from police or emergency personnel and use caution around emergency vehicles and traffic changes.
- Write down the time, location, and what you observed while the details are still fresh.
- If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
- Keep paperwork from the incident in one place for easy reference.
FAQ
Q: What happens when police arrive at a crash scene?
A: Officers secure the scene, assist the injured, document vehicle positions, and gather statements to determine how the crash occurred.
Q: Why do multi-vehicle crashes take longer to clear?
A: These incidents require extended investigation time, multiple tows, and scene coordination among responders, which can delay roadway reopening.
Q: What information is typically included in a crash report?
A: A crash report usually includes the date, time, and location, involved parties, vehicle descriptions, injuries, road conditions, and a narrative of the incident.
