Barnum, MN (July 28, 2026) – Two people were injured after a two-vehicle crash on southbound Interstate 35 near mile marker 222 in Barnum Township, Carlton County.
The crash happened around 9:21 a.m. on Monday, July 27, when a Subaru Impreza and a Toyota 4Runner were traveling southbound on Interstate 35. Officials said the vehicles collided during a lane change and then were involved in a second rear-end crash. The Subaru driver, identified as 41-year-old Jason John Beutz of Duluth, was not injured.
A 37-year-old passenger, Laura Catherine Raichel of Duluth, suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The Toyota driver, 38-year-old Kristine Marie Erwin of Moose Lake, also suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Moose Lake Essentia for treatment. All occupants were wearing seat belts.
Deputies are actively investigating the incident, and more details will be released as they become available. We are thinking of everyone affected and hoping for strength and healing.
What Is Reviewed After a Lane Change Crash?
Lane change crashes are reviewed by examining vehicle positions, roadway conditions, and the actions of each driver before impact. Investigators may look at damage patterns, traffic flow, and evidence from the roadway to better understand how the collision occurred.
Other details, including driver statements, vehicle inspections, and available records, may help explain the sequence of events. Factors such as visibility, road conditions, and spacing between vehicles can also provide additional context when reviewing these types of crashes.
