New Ulm, MN (August 18, 2025) – A two-vehicle crash involving a Jeep Grand Cherokee and a Toyota Rav4 resulted in injuries to a child passenger on Saturday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 15 and Highway 14 in Lafayette Township, Nicollet County. The collision occurred around 2:50 p.m. and involved multiple agencies, including Nicollet County Sheriff’s Office, Courtland Fire, and New Ulm Police and Fire Departments.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, both vehicles were traveling northbound on Hwy 15 when they collided. While most occupants reported no injuries, a 9-year-old female passenger from Marshall, MN, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to New Ulm Medical Center for treatment. The child had been properly restrained at the time of the crash.
The remaining passengers and drivers—ranging in age from 18 to 56—did not report injuries and declined further medical care at the scene. The road was dry at the time, and authorities have confirmed that alcohol was not a factor in the incident.
An investigation into the cause of the collision is ongoing. Traffic was temporarily disrupted as first responders secured the area and ensured all individuals were assessed for injuries.
We extend our best wishes to the young passenger as she recovers and offer support to all those involved in this incident.
Child Passenger Injuries in Minnesota Traffic Collisions
The recent crash at the junction of Hwy 15 and Hwy 14 serves as a reminder of how even seemingly routine traffic incidents can lead to injuries—particularly for children, who are more vulnerable in the event of a crash. Though properly restrained, the 9-year-old involved in Saturday’s collision still suffered injuries significant enough to warrant hospitalization, a common scenario in rear-seat impacts or chain-reaction traffic incidents.
Minnesota has strict child passenger safety laws that mandate appropriate restraint systems for children based on age, weight, and height. While compliance with these laws dramatically reduces the risk of serious injuries, it does not eliminate all danger in a moving vehicle—especially when sudden impacts occur at intersections, where most two-vehicle collisions take place.
Recovering from a traffic-related injury can be especially complicated for young victims and their families. Aside from physical treatment, there may be emotional and psychological effects, as well as logistical and financial challenges. In such cases, it’s important for families to understand their rights under Minnesota law and explore available support services.
Intersections like Hwy 15 and Hwy 14, particularly in semi-rural areas like Lafayette Township, often see a blend of local and through traffic, creating conditions ripe for misjudgments or reduced following distance. Authorities continue to monitor these zones and make improvements as needed—but individual driver attentiveness and community awareness remain key to prevention.
If you or your child has been injured in a crash, timely documentation, medical evaluation, and legal consultation are essential steps toward recovery and accountability.
If your child was hurt in a vehicle accident, it’s crucial to understand your options and resources. Local Accident Reports helps families in Minnesota access trusted care providers, support systems, and legal guidance. Reach out today to ensure you have what you need to protect your loved ones and begin the healing process.
