Henrietta Twp, MN (January 28, 2026) -A head-on collision involving two vehicles on Highway 34 resulted in a fatal crash on January 27 in Henrietta Township, Hubbard County. The incident occurred at approximately 12:10 p.m. when an eastbound 2005 Buick Lesabre crossed the center line near Evening Dr, lost control, and collided with a westbound 2007 Chevy Colorado. The driver of the Buick, an 80-year-old female from Nevis, MN, was fatally injured. Her identity is expected to be released by authorities on January 28. The driver of the Chevy, identified as 85-year-old Noel Francis Sletten of Park Rapids, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Sanford Health in Fargo for treatment. Authorities confirmed that alcohol was not a factor in the crash.
Key Details
- Location: Henrietta Twp, MN
- Where: Highway 34 near County Road 11
- Type: Fatal Head-On Crash Reported
- Reported: January 27, 12:10 PM
- Injuries: One fatality, one non-life-threatening injury
- Responding Agency: Minnesota State Patrol, Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office, Park Fire, North Ambulance
What We Know So Far
- A Buick Lesabre crossed the center line on Hwy 34 and struck a Chevy Colorado head-on.
- The crash occurred near County Road 11 in Henrietta Twp, Hubbard County.
- The 80-year-old Buick driver from Nevis, MN died in the crash.
- Chevy driver Noel Francis Sletten, 85, was injured but is expected to recover.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The identity of the deceased driver (pending official release)
- The specific cause that led the Buick to lose control
- Whether road or weather conditions played a role
- If any witnesses have come forward with additional information
Local Context
Highway 34 in Hubbard County is a key east-west corridor connecting rural communities like Henrietta Township and Park Rapids. The area near County Road 11 includes wooded surroundings and two-lane traffic, which can become hazardous if drivers lose control or visibility is reduced. Local responders from Hubbard County and Park Fire often coordinate with state patrol units when serious crashes occur along this stretch. As investigations continue, more information may be released regarding road conditions or contributing factors that led to this fatal collision.
What to Do Next
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with first responders. Leaving before the police arrive can create complications later.
- Write down the time, location, and what you observed while the details are still fresh.
- If you witnessed the crash, consider staying to provide a statement if it is safe to do so.
- Monitor news from official sources for updates as authorities release further information.
FAQ
Q: What happens when police arrive at a crash scene?
A: Police secure the area, provide assistance to victims, document vehicle positions, and begin investigating the cause of the crash.
Q: What does it mean when a crash report mentions “non-life-threatening” injuries?
A: It indicates that while the person was hurt, their injuries are not expected to result in death, though medical care may still be necessary.
Q: Can weather or rural road conditions contribute to fatal crashes?
A: Yes, narrow lanes, poor visibility, and weather conditions like snow or rain can increase the risk of losing control, especially on two-lane rural roads.
