Mountain Iron, MN (June 14, 2026) – Several people, including three young children, were injured in a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 169 and Rock Ridge Drive in Mountain Iron on Friday, around 7:29 p.m.
Officials stated that a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling southbound on Highway 169 on June 12, while a 2022 Nissan Altima was heading northbound. Investigators said the Nissan attempted to turn left onto Rock Ridge Drive when the two vehicles collided.
The Nissan was driven by 22-year-old Sarah Noemi Ebsolo of Oak Harbor, Washington. Ebsolo suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Essentia Health Virginia. Three child passengers—5-year-old Leah Fay Olson, 5-year-old Mia Kay Olson, and 6-year-old Roselyn Stella Olson—also sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to the same hospital. Another passenger, 29-year-old Rebekah Raya of Virginia, Minnesota, was hurt and received treatment as well.
The Jeep’s driver, 38-year-old Brianna Marie Boekelman of Brainerd, also suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Essentia Health Virginia. Authorities reported that road conditions were dry at the time of the crash. This is a developing story. We hope those injured recover fully and quickly.
Why Left-Turn Crashes Are Common at Highway Intersections
Collisions involving left-turning vehicles are among the most frequently reported intersection crashes. Drivers making a left turn must judge the speed and distance of oncoming traffic while also monitoring traffic signals, roadway conditions, and surrounding vehicles.
Even under clear and dry conditions, a small miscalculation can lead to a crash. Highway intersections can be especially challenging because vehicles often travel at higher speeds, reducing the amount of time available for drivers to react. Safety experts note that visibility, traffic volume, and timing all play a role in left-turn safety. Understanding these factors can help explain why these types of collisions continue to occur on roadways throughout the country.
