Hart Township, MN (August 7, 2025) – Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured victims after a collision involving two vehicles on Highway 43 in Hart Township, Winona County.
The Minnesota State Patrol reported that the crash occurred at approximately 2:10 p.m. at the intersection of Hwy 43 and Big Valley Dr. A 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and a 2009 Toyota Corolla were both traveling southbound on the highway when the vehicles collided. Authorities noted that the roadway was dry at the time of the incident.
First responders, including Rushford Fire and Ambulance and the Winona County Sheriff’s Office, worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. The driver of the Silverado, 31-year-old Tyler Michael Rehnelt of Winona, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Winona Health for medical treatment. Reports indicate that Rehnelt was not wearing a seat belt when the crash occurred.
The driver of the Toyota Corolla, 18-year-old Ethan Andrew Lanning of Rushford, also sustained non-life-threatening injuries but did not require hospital transport. Authorities confirmed that Lanning was properly restrained at the time of the crash. No alcohol involvement was reported for either driver.
The cause of the collision remains under investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this accident.
Rural Highway Safety Concerns in Southeastern Minnesota
Highway 43 in Winona County is a well-traveled corridor for local and regional drivers. Accidents in this area, particularly near intersections like Big Valley Dr, often involve higher speeds and limited visibility due to the rural terrain and elevation changes common in southeastern Minnesota.
Crashes involving two southbound vehicles—such as the recent incident in Hart Township—often occur when one vehicle slows to turn or merge and the trailing vehicle fails to notice in time. Driver attention, speed control, and seat belt use are all crucial for minimizing the severity of such collisions.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, non-life-threatening injuries are the most common outcome in rural two-vehicle crashes, but the risk of more serious consequences remains—especially when occupants are not wearing seat belts, as seen in this case.
Motorists in areas like Winona County are encouraged to stay alert, maintain safe following distances, and always use seat belts, regardless of trip length or familiarity with the roadway.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
