North Twp, MN (March 25, 2025) – A serious collision occurred Friday afternoon on State Highway 32 in North Township, Pennington County, leaving one woman with life-threatening injuries. The crash took place near Mile Marker 107 at approximately 12:08 PM and involved a suspect fleeing law enforcement.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. Authorities reported that a 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe, driven by 50-year-old Michelle Marie Holter of Thief River Falls, was northbound and fleeing from the Pennington County Sheriff's Office when it struck a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado traveling southbound. The driver of the Tahoe was not wearing a seatbelt and sustained life-threatening injuries. She was transported to Sanford ER in Thief River Falls for emergency treatment.
The driver of the Silverado, 48-year-old Dale Jeffrey Westerlund, and his passenger, 42-year-old Dustin Ray Holmstrom of Newfolden, were not injured. Both individuals were properly restrained at the time of the crash.
Responding agencies included the Pennington County Sheriff's Office, Thief River Falls Police and Fire Departments, and Sanford Ambulance. The road was reported to be dry at the time of the incident. An active investigation is ongoing to determine all contributing factors.
Our thoughts are with Michelle Holter and her family during this difficult time.
Police Pursuits and Highway Collision Risks in Minnesota
Friday’s crash on Hwy 32 in North Township is a stark example of the dangers associated with high-speed police chases on rural highways. In Minnesota, such pursuits—especially on two-lane state roads—can quickly escalate into life-threatening situations not only for those fleeing but also for uninvolved motorists.
This incident unfolded along a relatively open stretch of Highway 32, a rural route frequently used by local residents. While conditions were dry and visibility clear, the dynamic nature of a pursuit increases the likelihood of collisions due to excessive speeds, unpredictable maneuvers, and limited reaction time for other drivers.
According to Minnesota public safety officials, police pursuits result in hundreds of injuries statewide each year. While law enforcement officers are trained to follow strict pursuit protocols, the erratic behavior of fleeing drivers often puts innocent people at risk. In this case, the Silverado occupants were fortunate to avoid injury, but the event underscores how quickly lives can change on the road.
Accidents during police chases also raise complex legal questions regarding liability, response tactics, and the suspect's criminal charges. Individuals injured in such events—whether directly involved or bystanders—may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, or lost wages if another party’s actions were negligent or unlawful.
Minnesota continues to explore ways to reduce risks associated with police pursuits, including policy reviews, technology such as GPS tracking, and officer training. Drivers encountering emergency situations are urged to stay alert, yield to law enforcement, and prioritize safety. For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.
