Bemidji, MN (September 2, 2025) – A multi-vehicle crash involving four SUVs left several people, including children, with non-life-threatening injuries Tuesday morning in Bemidji. The incident occurred around 7:53 a.m. along southbound Highway 71 near Anne St NW and Fern St.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash involved a 2016 Toyota Highlander, a 2016 Ford Escape, a 1998 Chevrolet Suburban, and a 2007 GMC Yukon—all traveling southbound when the collision occurred. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but the impact caused injuries to several occupants, including a mother and her three children.
Natasha Hope Vandekamp, 35, of Northhome, was driving the Toyota Highlander with three passengers—children aged 13, 4, and an infant—on board. All four were transported to Sanford Bemidji Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. Everyone in the Highlander was reported to have been properly restrained at the time of the crash.
The drivers and occupants of the other vehicles—residents of Bemidji ranging in age from 11 to 58—were not injured. The Ford Escape, driven by 23-year-old Haley Christian Burr, had its airbags deployed. Burr was reportedly uninjured despite not wearing a seat belt.
Road conditions at the time were dry. Emergency crews from Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office, Bemidji Police Department, and local fire and ambulance services responded to the scene.
We extend our thoughts to the injured family and hope for a full and speedy recovery for all those affected.
Multi-Vehicle Collisions in Minnesota
Crashes like the one that occurred Tuesday morning in Bemidji underscore the dangers of high-volume roadways, especially during peak travel hours. Highway 71 is a major north-south corridor through the Bemidji area, and traffic congestion during school drop-offs and morning commutes can increase the likelihood of chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles.
While the exact cause of this collision remains under investigation, multi-vehicle pileups often stem from sudden stops, distracted driving, or following too closely—especially in fast-moving traffic. The fact that one vehicle carried three children—including an infant—highlights the importance of proper child restraints and seat belt usage, all of which played a key role in minimizing injuries.
In Minnesota, rear-end and chain-reaction collisions are among the most common crash types, often involving multiple drivers who are unable to stop in time. While no one in this incident suffered life-threatening injuries, these types of crashes can have lasting consequences—both physically and emotionally—for those involved.
Families involved in multi-vehicle accidents often face logistical and legal complexities, especially when determining liability and navigating insurance claims. Quick access to care, accurate reporting, and support services are essential steps in managing recovery.
Educational Approach → Response → Action: Collisions involving families and multiple vehicles can turn ordinary mornings into emergencies. If you or someone you love was injured in a crash like the one on Highway 71, Local Accident Reports can help. We provide reliable, compassionate guidance to connect you with the medical and legal resources you need. Reach out today to take the first step toward recovery.
