Maine Prairie Twp, MN (September 2, 2025) – A three-vehicle crash resulted in injuries Tuesday morning in Stearns County, prompting a multi-agency response at the intersection of MN Hwy 15 and Stearns County Rd 146.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the incident occurred around 5:37 a.m. when a 2018 Chevy Silverado traveling east on County Rd 146 entered the intersection and collided with a 2019 Dodge Journey heading north on Hwy 15. A 2015 Chevy Silverado traveling west on County Rd 146 was also involved in the collision.
Mayo Ambulance transported 52-year-old Jamie Duane Leither of Kimball to St. Cloud Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The other drivers, a 16-year-old female from the first Silverado and 45-year-old Jacob Joseph Salzbrun of South Haven, were evaluated at the scene but not transported. The teen driver reportedly was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
Kimball Fire and Rescue assisted at the scene alongside Stearns County deputies and state troopers. Officials noted wet road conditions at the time of the crash, which may have contributed to the incident. All airbags deployed in the 2018 and 2019 vehicles, while the 2015 Silverado’s airbags did not activate.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the collision, including whether roadway conditions, timing, or right-of-way violations played a role.
We extend our well wishes for a full recovery to Jamie Duane Leither and all others affected by this crash.
Intersection Collisions in Minnesota
Crashes at rural intersections—like the one at MN Hwy 15 and Stearns County Rd 146—can be particularly dangerous due to the combination of high speeds, limited visibility, and cross-traffic hazards. Tuesday morning’s incident in Maine Prairie Township is a stark reminder of how quickly a routine drive can turn serious, even on familiar local roads.
Stearns County’s rural intersections often lack the protective infrastructure found in more urban settings, such as extended turning lanes or advanced traffic signals. Drivers approaching from side roads like County Rd 146 may have difficulty gauging speed or distance of traffic on highways like MN 15. Wet road surfaces, as reported in this incident, further increase the risk of misjudgment and loss of control.
Minnesota crash data shows that multi-vehicle collisions at intersections continue to be a leading cause of non-life-threatening injuries in rural parts of the state. The involvement of a teen driver and the absence of seatbelt use in this case also reflect common challenges in driver safety education and awareness.
For those injured in intersection crashes, recovery often involves more than physical healing—it includes navigating insurance claims, possible legal questions, and emotional stress. Timely support and access to reliable resources can be critical in helping victims and families move forward after a collision.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash on Minnesota’s roads, Local Accident Reports is here to help. We connect individuals with trusted resources, real-time updates, and the guidance needed to navigate recovery. Reach out today to get the support you need during this difficult time.
