Madelia Twp, MN (May 13, 2026) – Two people in a Ford Fiesta were hurt after a two-car crash on Tuesday, May 12, on Highway 15 near milepost 42 in Watonwan County. The collision occurred at approximately 2:02 p.m.
Both vehicles were heading southbound on Highway 15 when they collided. The Ford Fiesta was driven by Miguel Angel Barbosa, 50, of Saint James. Rene Hernandez, 39, was also in the vehicle at the time of the crash.
Barbosa and Hernandez both suffered non-life-threatening injuries and were taken to Madelia Hospital. The airbag deployed in the Fiesta. The Toyota Tundra was driven by William Henry Wurtz, 81, of Hanska. Wurtz was not hurt, and no airbag deployment was reported in his vehicle.
All three occupants were wearing seatbelts, and alcohol was not suspected in either vehicle. The incident remains under review by authorities, and additional details will be released as they become available.
We are thinking of those injured as they receive medical care.
What Can Cause Same-Direction Crashes on Rural Highways in Minnesota?
Crashes between two vehicles traveling in the same direction on a rural highway can happen for a number of reasons. Sudden braking, unexpected slowdowns, and differences in vehicle speed are among the more common contributing factors. On two-lane highways like those found across southern Minnesota, there is little room to maneuver when a vehicle ahead changes speed without warning.
The size difference between vehicles can also affect how a crash unfolds. A smaller car struck from behind by a larger truck or SUV may absorb significantly more force, even at relatively modest speeds. This helps explain why occupants in the smaller vehicle are more often the ones who end up hurt in these situations.
