Cold Spring, MN (August 21, 2025) – A semi-truck accident with injuries was reported Wednesday afternoon on MN Highway 23 near mile marker 191 in Cold Spring, Stearns County. The crash occurred around 4:10 p.m. and prompted a multi-agency emergency response, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
Officials stated that a 2004 International semi-tractor trailer, pulling a 1992 Brenner trailer, was making a turn from Main St onto northbound Highway 23 when the truck tipped over onto its side. The driver, identified as 63-year-old Brenda Kay Gettel of Long Prairie, sustained non-life-threatening injuries in the crash. She was transported by Mayo Ambulance to St. Cloud Hospital for treatment.
Authorities confirmed that Gettel was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the incident. No other injuries were reported, and no additional vehicles were involved beyond the tractor-trailer and attached unit.
Cold Spring Fire Department, Cold Spring Police, and the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene, along with ambulance crews. The roadway was disrupted while the overturned semi was stabilized and recovery operations were completed.
The crash remains under investigation, but road conditions were reported as dry, and alcohol was not a factor.
We extend our well wishes to Ms. Gettel and hope for her full recovery.
Truck Accidents in Minnesota
Semi-truck crashes like this one on Highway 23 illustrate the dangers large commercial vehicles pose when maneuvering through turns and intersections. Even at relatively low speeds, tractor-trailers can become unstable due to load weight, balance issues, or sharp turning angles, leading to rollovers.
In this case, the driver’s lack of seat belt use likely contributed to the severity of her injuries. Minnesota authorities consistently stress the importance of seat belt compliance, not only in passenger vehicles but also for commercial truck drivers. Seat belts remain one of the most effective ways to prevent serious or fatal injuries in rollover crashes.
Rollovers involving large trucks often require extensive emergency responses due to their potential for cargo spills, roadway blockages, and fire risks. Fortunately, this incident was contained, though it still created delays and required specialized recovery equipment to clear the roadway.
For victims of truck-related crashes, recovery can involve significant medical care, rehabilitation, and financial challenges. Legal and logistical support is often necessary to address insurance, liability, and employment concerns following such incidents.
Local Accident Reports is committed to keeping Minnesota residents informed of serious roadway incidents and helping victims and families access the resources they need to recover. If you or someone you know has been impacted by a truck accident in Stearns County or across the state, guidance and support are available to help you through the aftermath.
