Stearns County, MN (April 6, 2026) – A 76-year-old man from Paynesville was hospitalized on Friday, April 3, after a collision at the intersection of Highway 4 and County Road 32. The crash occurred just before 1 p.m. when a southbound 2009 Pontiac Torrent and a westbound 2004 Chevrolet Blazer collided.
The Blazer was driven by a 17-year-old male from Richmond, who was wearing a seat belt and was not injured despite airbag deployment. The Pontiac driver, who was not wearing a seat belt, had his airbag deploy and was taken to Paynesville Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Alcohol was not a factor in the crash. Emergency units from Lake Henry Fire Department, Belgrade, Brooten, and Paynesville police departments, along with the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, and additional details will be released if available.
We are thinking of the injured man as he recovers.
Why Intersection Collisions Can Be Serious
Crashes at intersections often involve multiple directions of travel, increasing the risk of injuries. Airbags and seat belts help protect occupants, but failure to use restraints can increase harm during impact.
Emergency responders treat injuries immediately and coordinate with multiple agencies when needed. Investigators review vehicle positions, witness statements, and traffic conditions to understand how the collision occurred. Even moderate-speed crashes can result in hospitalization, highlighting the importance of careful driving at intersections.
