Manannah Township, MN (August 16, 2025) – A deadly crash involving two semi trucks occurred Friday afternoon on Highway 55 in Manannah Township, Meeker County. The incident, which took place at approximately 3:03 p.m. near 22964 Highway 55—just east of Lakewood Road—claimed the life of one driver and drew a multi-agency emergency response.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, a 1996 Kenworth semi truck was stopped eastbound on Highway 55, waiting to turn left into a driveway. A second eastbound semi, a 2002 Kenworth, collided with the stationary vehicle. The force of the crash fatally injured the second driver, identified as 57-year-old David Allen Hofstadter of Burtrum, MN. His seat belt usage was not confirmed, and no airbag deployment was reported.
The driver of the stationary semi, 73-year-old Thomas Joseph Haag of Eden Valley, MN, was not injured in the collision. Both drivers were not suspected of being under the influence of alcohol, and road conditions at the time were dry.
Responding agencies included Stearns and Meeker County Sheriff’s Departments, Eden Valley Police, Fire & Rescue, and CentraCare Ambulance. The highway was closed for a time as authorities conducted an investigation and cleared the large commercial vehicles from the roadway.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of David Allen Hofstadter during this difficult time.
Large Truck Collisions in Minnesota
Tragic crashes involving commercial vehicles like the one on Highway 55 highlight the grave risks posed when heavy trucks are involved in roadway incidents. In Minnesota, rural highways frequently see semi traffic due to agricultural and freight transportation—making these roads vulnerable to catastrophic outcomes when collisions occur.
In this case, the crash occurred during daylight on a dry road, eliminating common weather-related factors. However, the dynamics of one semi rear-ending another, especially at highway speeds, suggest a possible issue with visibility, distraction, or misjudgment of distance and stopping time. Unfortunately, even a brief lapse can have fatal consequences when vehicles of this size and weight are involved.
Victims of large truck collisions often sustain severe trauma, and fatal incidents remain disproportionately high in semi-involved crashes compared to standard passenger vehicles. Families are frequently left to navigate not only grief but also complex legal and insurance challenges that arise from commercial transport incidents.
For those affected by fatal crashes, timely support and accurate reporting are essential. Resources for grief counseling, legal consultation, and victim advocacy can help families cope and begin the path toward closure.
At Local Accident Reports, our mission is to ensure that victims and their families receive compassionate guidance, timely updates, and access to the help they need. If you or someone you know has been affected by a serious truck collision, reach out today to learn how we can support you during this difficult time.
