Dunn Township, MN (September 1, 2024) – Emergency crews responded to a two-vehicle crash with injuries on Highway 59 near Milepost 249 in Otter Tail County, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
First responders from Pelican Rapids Police and Fire, along with Ottertail County Sheriff’s deputies, were dispatched to the scene around 1:30 PM. Paramedics from Ringdahl and Essentia Ambulance provided immediate care to those injured following the collision.
Authorities stated that a 2003 Ford F350 traveling northbound on Hwy 59 collided with a southbound 2006 Ford Freestar. The impact resulted in non-life-threatening injuries to both occupants of the Freestar. The driver, 28-year-old Lukas Arthur Maughan of Fargo, ND, was transported to Sanford Fargo for treatment. His passenger, 28-year-old Hayley Maxine Maughan, also of Fargo, was taken to Detroit Lakes Essentia Health with similar injuries. Both were reported to have been wearing seat belts.
The driver of the Ford F350, identified as 54-year-old Mark James Manning of Pelican Rapids, was uninjured and not transported. Officials confirmed that airbags deployed in both vehicles and that alcohol was not a factor in the crash. Road conditions at the time were reported as dry.
The scene was secured for several hours while crews cleared debris and law enforcement documented evidence. An investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.
Our thoughts are with Lukas and Hayley Maughan as they recover from their injuries.
Two-Vehicle Collisions in Minnesota
Crashes along rural stretches of highway like the one at Milepost 249 on Hwy 59 are not uncommon in Otter Tail County, especially where traffic from multiple townships converges. While road conditions were dry and visibility was likely clear during this incident, factors like vehicle speed, misjudged turns, or momentary distractions can contribute to serious crashes, even in broad daylight.
This particular collision serves as an example of how quickly a routine drive can turn dangerous. Though both vehicles were equipped with airbags and the occupants were properly restrained, the resulting injuries still required hospital care, emphasizing how even well-managed collisions carry risks.
Highway 59 is a vital route through the region, connecting communities from Pelican Rapids to Detroit Lakes and beyond. As traffic continues to increase, so does the need for awareness, defensive driving, and adequate road signage, especially near rural mileposts that may be less closely monitored than urban corridors.
Victims recovering from injury accidents may face a host of unexpected challenges, including time away from work, mounting medical bills, and emotional stress. Having access to trustworthy resources can make all the difference in navigating what comes next.
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision like the one in Dunn Township, Local Accident Reports is here to offer meaningful support. We provide access to the resources, information, and local connections needed to move forward after an accident. Don’t hesitate, reach out today and learn how we can help you on the road to recovery.
