Rock Creek, MN (June 24, 2026) – Four people sustained injuries following a two-vehicle collision on Monday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 70 and Interstate 35 in Pine County.
According to authorities, the crash occurred at approximately 2:08 p.m. on June 22 in Rock Creek. Investigators reported that a 2017 Subaru Impreza was traveling westbound on Highway 70 while a 2011 Toyota Corolla was traveling eastbound when the vehicles collided.
The Subaru was driven by 25-year-old Carina Xiong of Pine City. She and two passengers, 18-year-old Olivia Xiong and 5-year-old Landon Chan Xiong, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Another passenger, 2-year-old Zander Vasu Xiong, was not injured.
The driver of the Toyota, 31-year-old Elliot Yunior Ortiz-Sinning of Chicago, Illinois, also suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Essentia Health in Sandstone for treatment.
Authorities indicated that road conditions were dry at the time of the collision; still, they continue to review the circumstances surrounding the crash.
We hope those injured experience a full and speedy recovery.
What Information Is Reviewed After Two-Vehicle Highway Collisions?
When two vehicles collide on a highway, investigators typically examine a variety of factors to better understand how the roadway encounter occurred. Vehicle travel direction, roadway layout, speed, visibility, and driver actions are reviewed as part of the investigative process.
Intersections connecting highways and interstate access points can be especially complex because they involve merging, crossing, and turning movements. Drivers must monitor surrounding traffic while navigating changing roadway conditions and traffic patterns.
Investigators may also review vehicle damage, physical evidence from the scene, witness statements, and any available electronic data. These details can help establish a timeline of events and provide a clearer understanding of the circumstances that contributed to the collision and resulting injuries.
