Tansem Twp, MN (August 27, 2025) – A tragic two-vehicle collision on Highway 34 in Clay County left one man dead and another person injured Tuesday morning. The crash occurred at approximately 8:25 a.m. near milepost 6 in Tansem Township, just outside Detroit Lakes.
According to Minnesota State Patrol reports, a 2007 Dodge Caliber was traveling eastbound on Hwy 34 when it collided with a westbound 2018 Subaru Outback. The collision occurred on dry road conditions and involved significant front-end damage to both vehicles.
Emergency responders from Barnesville Fire Department and Clay County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the scene. The driver of the Dodge Caliber, identified as 89-year-old Burton John Swenson of Barnesville, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Authorities confirmed he was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, and no alcohol was involved.
The driver of the Subaru, 64-year-old Cary Lee Zepper of Hawley, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Sanford Hospital for treatment. She was also wearing her seatbelt, and her vehicle’s airbags deployed upon impact.
The Minnesota State Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the crash. No additional details have been released regarding contributing factors.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Swenson and wish Ms. Zepper a full and swift recovery.
Fatal Car Accidents in Minnesota
Crashes like the one on Highway 34 in Tansem Township are heartbreaking reminders of the dangers that can unfold in just a moment on Minnesota’s rural highways. This stretch of road in Clay County is commonly traveled by residents commuting between small towns like Barnesville and Hawley, and while conditions on Tuesday were dry, the consequences of the impact were devastating.
Fatal collisions often involve elderly drivers, as was the case in this incident. Age-related factors such as slower reaction time, vision limitations, and physical fragility can increase the risk of serious or fatal injuries—even when safety measures like seatbelts and airbags are used.
Minnesota continues to emphasize safe rural driving through road signage improvements and public awareness campaigns. Yet, head-on crashes remain one of the deadliest types of collisions due to the direct transfer of force at high speeds. Highway 34 is a two-lane road without a median barrier, which increases the potential for crossover incidents during passing or unintentional lane departures.
For the families affected by such crashes, the emotional toll is compounded by the suddenness of the loss and the logistical burden that follows. Funeral arrangements, medical bills, insurance claims, and vehicle recovery all become pressing concerns in the wake of tragedy.
Victims and their families may need support navigating these challenges, from emotional care to financial or legal resources. Knowing where to turn during such times can make an important difference.
If your family has suffered the loss of a loved one in a Minnesota traffic accident, Local Accident Reports is here to support you. We help families connect with local services that can guide them through the recovery process—whether it’s finding counseling, managing insurance, or understanding your options. Reach out today to begin getting the help you need during this difficult time.
