Lake Grove, MN (August 14, 2025) – Emergency crews responded to a two-vehicle collision with injuries Wednesday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 59 and Highway 113 in Mahnomen County. The crash occurred at approximately 12:33 p.m. in the Lake Grove area and involved both adult and juvenile occupants.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash occurred when a 2024 Ram Promaster 2500 traveling north on Hwy 59 collided with a 2002 Buick LeSabre that was heading east on Hwy 113. Emergency responders from Waubun Fire Department, White Earth Police Department, and Mahnomen Health Care Center EMS arrived quickly to assist.
First responders, including paramedics, provided medical attention to several individuals at the scene. While most occupants escaped without injury, a 14-year-old passenger in the Buick sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Mahnomen Hospital for treatment. The 16-year-old female driver of the Buick and another 13-year-old passenger were both wearing seat belts and were uninjured. The driver of the Ram, 39-year-old Justin Douglas Engholm of Wadena, was also uninjured.
Road conditions were dry at the time, and no alcohol was involved. Airbags deployed in the Ram Promaster, but not in the older-model Buick. The Minnesota State Patrol continues to investigate the crash, and further updates may follow as details are confirmed.
Our thoughts are with the injured passenger and their family. We wish them a full and speedy recovery.
Teen Injuries in Rural Minnesota Crashes
This recent crash in Lake Grove underscores the vulnerability of young passengers in rural intersection collisions, especially when older vehicles are involved. Although seat belts were properly used by all occupants in this incident, the absence of modern safety features—such as airbag deployment in the 2002 Buick LeSabre—may have contributed to the severity of the 14-year-old passenger’s injuries.
Rural Minnesota roads like Highway 59 and Highway 113 see a mix of farm traffic, local commuters, and through-travelers. Intersections on these roads often lack the advanced traffic control systems found in urban areas, making right-of-way confusion and reduced visibility more common causes of crashes. The risk is further elevated when teen drivers are involved. According to Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety data, teen drivers are significantly more likely to be involved in crashes due to inexperience, even when following the rules of the road.
This incident highlights several key points of concern: the challenges of rural intersections, the importance of properly functioning safety systems, and the need for added caution when transporting young passengers. Fortunately, in this case, quick action by local emergency services ensured that the injured teen received timely medical care.
For families dealing with the aftermath of a crash involving young passengers, recovery can extend far beyond the physical injuries. Emotional distress, academic disruption, and parental concerns are all real consequences following such incidents. Knowing what steps to take—from seeking medical follow-up to understanding insurance processes—can help ease the burden.
At Local Accident Reports, we aim to provide timely updates and helpful resources for those affected by serious accidents across Minnesota. Whether you’re seeking medical support, community assistance, or legal information, we are here to help you navigate the recovery process with confidence.
When injury accidents impact teens and their families, swift and informed action is essential. Let Local Accident Reports be your trusted source for information, updates, and support after a crash.
