Carlisle, MN (June 14, 2026) – Around 10:58 p.m on Friday, June 12, two people suffered injuries in a three-vehicle collision on westbound Interstate 94 near Milepost 41 in Carlisle Township.
A 2022 Toyota Tacoma was traveling westbound when the driver lost control, causing the pickup to strike the center median. The disabled Tacoma came to rest in the left lane of the interstate. Authorities said a westbound 2018 Ford Escape then collided with the disabled Tacoma. A FedEx semi-truck also became involved in the crash moments later.
The Ford’s driver, 25-year-old Allie Jo Critchley of Maple Grove, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Lake Region Hospital. Her passenger, 26-year-old Austin James Young of Maple Grove, also suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Sanford Hospital. The occupants of the Toyota Tacoma and the semi-truck driver were not reported injured. Road conditions were dry at the time of the crash. More information may be updated as the investigation continues. We hope those injured recover fully and quickly.
Why Disabled Vehicles on Highways Can Create Secondary Crashes
A vehicle that becomes disabled in a travel lane can present a serious hazard to approaching motorists. Drivers traveling at highway speeds may have only a few seconds to recognize an obstruction and react, particularly at night when visibility is reduced.
Secondary crashes occur when vehicles encounter unexpected obstacles and do not have enough distance to stop or safely change lanes. Factors such as traffic volume, vehicle speed, lighting conditions, and roadway design can all affect a driver’s ability to avoid a disabled vehicle. Large commercial trucks may require even greater stopping distances, increasing the likelihood of additional impacts. Understanding these risks highlights why motorists are encouraged to move disabled vehicles out of travel lanes whenever it can be done safely.
