Arthur Twp, MN (September 1, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash involving injuries occurred on Sunday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 23 and Harbor St in Arthur Township, Kanabec County. The incident was reported at approximately 4:12 p.m. and involved a Buick Lucerne and a Ford Freestar.
Medics from Wellia Ambulance, along with crews from Ogilvie Fire, responded to the scene to assist the injured. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash occurred when the northbound Buick Lucerne, stopped at a stop sign on Harbor St, pulled into the intersection and struck a westbound Ford Freestar traveling on Highway 23. The impact pushed the Ford off the roadway, where it collided with a stop sign and a cable junction box.
The Buick Lucerne was driven by 67-year-old Thomas Gerard Parent of Mora, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Wellia Mora for treatment. His passenger, 92-year-old Mary Donna Parent, also suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Wellia.
In the Ford Freestar, the driver, 31-year-old Dominick Vincent Birch of Oak Grove, was not injured. However, his passenger, 36-year-old Rebecca Marie Jean Fox of Coon Rapids, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was also treated at Wellia Mora.
Airbags deployed in both vehicles, and all involved individuals were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. Alcohol was not a factor in the incident. The road was dry at the time of the collision, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Our thoughts are with those injured in this crash, and we wish them a smooth and full recovery.
Intersection Collisions in Minnesota
The crash at the intersection of Highway 23 and Harbor St is an example of how quickly a routine drive can turn dangerous when visibility, timing, or right-of-way decisions intersect. Rural intersections like this one in Kanabec County often lack the turn lanes, traffic signals, or dedicated merging space found in more urban areas, increasing the chance of serious injuries during a misjudged maneuver.
Sunday’s crash reflects a common scenario in Minnesota traffic incidents: vehicles attempting to cross or turn onto state highways from local roads without the benefit of traffic signals or turn indicators. In this case, the Buick entered the highway from Harbor St and collided with the westbound Ford Freestar, resulting in a secondary impact with roadside structures.
Minnesota transportation data highlights rural intersections as especially prone to serious crashes due to speed differentials and limited visual cues. Drivers must be extra cautious when crossing highways like MN-23, where through traffic often travels at 55 mph or more. Waiting for a longer gap in traffic and avoiding hurried decisions can help prevent devastating outcomes.
Injuries from intersection crashes are often more severe because of the angle and force of impact. Even at lower speeds, side impacts can cause trauma that requires ongoing medical care and recovery. Prompt treatment, follow-up care, and legal guidance are key to managing the long-term effects of such collisions.
If you or someone close to you has been injured in a crash like the one in Arthur Township, Local Accident Reports can help you stay informed and supported. We provide timely updates, access to local recovery resources, and guidance as you navigate the path ahead. Reach out today to learn how we can assist in your recovery process.
