This is an updated post. You can read the original story here.
Cottonwood County, MN (March 25, 2026) – A tragic head-on collision in southwestern Minnesota claimed the lives of five people along Highway 71 in Cottonwood County.
The crash occurred on Friday, March 20, when an SUV traveling on the highway collided head-on with a 2019 Ford Transit van. Authorities said the SUV was driven by 67-year-old Martin Hanson of Springfield, who died at the scene.
The van was driven by 42-year-old Matthew Schultz of Lakefield, who survived with non-life-threatening injuries. Four passengers in the van were also killed in the crash. They were identified as 49-year-old Kelly Hargus of Jackson, 73-year-old Kathleen Johnson of Jackson, 73-year-old Richard Johnson of Jackson, and 47-year-old Lindsey Rossow of Lakefield.
Nine other passengers in the van were hurt and taken to hospitals for treatment. Officials later reported that the SUV driver did not have a valid driver’s license. It was also noted that while the van was built with seat belts, none were installed at the time of the crash.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
How Safety Equipment and Driver Qualifications Affect Crash Outcomes
Vehicle safety features and driver readiness can strongly influence the outcome of a crash. Seat belts are designed to reduce movement during impact and help prevent people from being thrown within or out of a vehicle. When they are not present or not used, the risk of serious injury or death can increase significantly.
Driver qualifications also play a part in roadway safety. Licensing processes are meant to ensure that drivers understand traffic laws and can safely operate a vehicle. When a driver does not meet these standards, it may increase the chance of dangerous situations on the road.
Together, proper safety equipment and trained drivers can help lower the severity of crashes and improve overall outcomes for those involved.
