Faribault, MN (February 19, 2026) – An injury crash involving a passenger vehicle and a semi tractor-trailer was reported Wednesday morning on southbound Interstate 35 in Rice County. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the collision occurred near milepost 60 in Faribault. Authorities said a 2018 Ford Fusion and a 2020 Volvo tractor truck were both traveling southbound on I-35 when they collided. One driver was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Key Details
- Reported: February 18 at 11:01 a.m.
- Location: SB I-35 near milepost 60, Faribault, Rice County
- Type: Injury crash involving a car and semi
- Injuries: One driver sustained non-life-threatening injuries
- Response Agencies: Rice County Sheriff’s Office, Faribault Police Department, Faribault Fire Department, and North Ambulance
What We Know So Far
- The Ford Fusion and Volvo tractor truck were traveling southbound when the vehicles collided.
- The crash occurred near milepost 60 on Interstate 35.
- The 22-year-old driver of the Ford Fusion was transported to District One Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
- The 26-year-old driver of the Volvo tractor truck was not injured and was not transported.
- Authorities indicated that alcohol was not suspected, and both drivers were wearing seat belts.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The specific sequence of events leading up to the collision.
- Whether road or traffic conditions contributed to the crash.
- If any citations will be issued.
- The extent of vehicle damage.
The southbound lanes of Interstate 35 near milepost 60 serve as a key route through Faribault and Rice County, carrying a steady flow of passenger vehicles and commercial trucks. When crashes occur along this stretch, particularly those involving semi tractor-trailers, responders often work to secure multiple lanes to reduce the risk of secondary collisions while assisting those involved. With agencies including the Rice County Sheriff’s Office, Faribault Police Department, and Faribault Fire Department responding alongside North Ambulance, the focus typically centers on medical evaluation, traffic control, and documenting vehicle positions before clearing the scene. Additional updates may be released if investigators determine further details about how the crash unfolded.
What to Do Next
- If your vehicle cannot be moved safely, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives, especially on busy roads.
- Follow directions from police or emergency personnel and use caution around emergency vehicles and traffic changes.
- If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
- Monitor how you feel after the crash. Some injuries can appear hours or days later.
Frequently Asked Questions
What information is typically included in a crash report?
A crash report generally outlines the date, time, and location of the incident, identifies the vehicles and drivers involved, and summarizes preliminary findings from responding officers.
Why are freeway crashes considered especially hazardous?
Freeways like I-35 involve higher travel speeds and heavy traffic volumes, which can increase the severity of collisions and the risk of additional crashes if lanes are blocked.
Can an investigation continue after the scene is cleared?
Yes. Investigators may continue reviewing evidence, reports, and statements after vehicles are removed and traffic has resumed.
Source
Read the original coverage here: original report.
