Oronoco Township, MN (September 4, 2026) – A 5-year-old child was killed, and three others were injured after a crash involving a passenger vehicle and a semi-truck on Wednesday, September 2, on U.S. Highway 63 at milepost 44 in Oronoco Township, Olmsted County.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, a 2020 Mazda CX-5 was traveling westbound on Highway 63 while a 2000 Peterbilt semi was traveling eastbound. The vehicles collided on the highway.
The Mazda’s driver, 34-year-old Jordan Scott Kehoe of Rochester, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital Rochester. His passenger, 34-year-old Brittany Marie Kehoe, also of Rochester, suffered life-threatening injuries and was taken to the same hospital.
Two children were also passengers in the Mazda. A 1-year-old boy sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital Rochester, and the 5-year-old passenger suffered fatal injuries.
The semi-truck driver, 43-year-old Justin Charles Tentis of Elgin, was not injured and was not transported to a hospital. No alcohol involvement was suspected, and the roadway was dry.
The Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, Rochester Fire Department, Mayo Ambulance, and Mayo One helicopter assisted at the scene.
We offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased child.
What Should Drivers Know About Sharing Roads With Large Trucks?
Large commercial trucks have different handling characteristics from passenger vehicles because of their size, weight, and length. They generally require more distance to stop and can take longer to accelerate or change direction. Drivers should avoid cutting in too close in front of a truck and allow plenty of space when passing or changing lanes.
Blind spots around large trucks can also be significantly larger than those around passenger vehicles. A driver who cannot see the truck’s mirrors may be in an area where the truck driver has limited visibility. Staying visible, maintaining a safe following distance, and passing without lingering alongside the truck can help reduce these risks.
Highway drivers should also adjust their speed and attention to road conditions and traffic patterns. Keeping a steady lane position, avoiding distractions, and leaving enough room to react to unexpected situations are basic practices that can improve safety. Seat belts should be worn by every occupant on every trip, including children who are properly secured in age- and size-appropriate restraints.
