Cameron Twp, MN (September 12, 2025) – Emergency responders from Lake Wilson and Murray County rushed to a two-vehicle collision that resulted in injuries near the intersection of Highway 91 and 171st St in Cameron Township on Wednesday afternoon.
The crash occurred around 4:00 p.m. when a school bus traveling westbound on 171st St came to a full stop at the posted stop sign. Simultaneously, a 2018 Chevy Traverse was heading southbound on Highway 91 when the two vehicles collided at the intersection.
First responders, including paramedics and fire crews, worked swiftly to assess and assist the occupants involved. The driver of the Chevy Traverse, 40-year-old Heather Mae Dressen of Tyler, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital in Slayton for treatment. Fortunately, the school bus driver, 66-year-old John Richard Swart of Slayton, did not report any injuries at the scene.
According to reports, airbags did not deploy in either vehicle, and both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the incident. Weather and road conditions were reported as dry. Outside agencies including the Murray County Sheriff’s Office and Lake Wilson Fire/First Responders assisted on site.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances that led to the crash. No citations have been issued at this time. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident, especially those recovering from injuries.
School Bus Accidents in Minnesota
Wednesday’s crash in Cameron Township highlights the unique risks posed by school bus accidents, especially in rural intersections where visibility or right-of-way confusion can increase collision risk. In this incident, the intersection of Highway 91 and 171st St—a crossroad connecting local and through traffic—played a significant role in the timing and trajectory of both vehicles. The fact that the school bus had stopped properly before the crash further complicates the incident, underscoring the importance of continued vigilance even at marked stops.
While school buses are designed with numerous safety features, they are not immune to traffic collisions. Crashes involving buses can result in significant trauma due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. Thankfully, in this case, no children were reported aboard, and the bus driver was unharmed. However, the collision did lead to a non-life-threatening injury for the other motorist involved, prompting transport to a local hospital.
From a broader perspective, Minnesota has seen a consistent effort to improve rural roadway safety, especially around intersections with limited traffic control infrastructure. Efforts often include increasing signage, enhancing road markings, and installing flashing beacons. However, even with these measures in place, driver attentiveness and intersection awareness remain critical.
For residents and daily commuters in Murray County, it is crucial to be especially cautious around school transportation routes and intersections. This includes reducing speed, preparing to stop earlier than expected, and carefully scanning both directions—even when cross traffic appears minimal. Additionally, school bus-related crashes often require further investigation to determine if visibility, timing, or distractions played a contributing role.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a similar incident, reaching out for appropriate medical care and support services is essential. Navigating the aftermath of a crash—especially one involving large vehicles like school buses—can be physically, emotionally, and legally complex.
If you’ve been injured in an accident like the one that occurred in Cameron Township, getting timely help is vital. At Local Accident Reports, we work every day to support crash victims and their families as they deal with recovery, insurance concerns, and legal options. Whether you’re facing medical bills or simply want to understand your rights after a crash, we provide the resources to move forward confidently. Contact us today to get connected with the support you need.
