Nisswa, MN (August 18, 2026) – A Peterbilt tractor-trailer and a Nissan Versa collided on Monday morning on southbound Highway 371 at County Road 77 in Nisswa, Crow Wing County.
The Peterbilt was traveling south on Highway 371 when the Nissan struck it from behind. The roadway was dry at the time.
The Nissan driver, 53-year-old Earl Edward Simmons of Little Falls, was not wearing a seat belt and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. He was taken to Essentia Health Brainerd for treatment.
The Nissan passenger, 59-year-old Dean Arnold Gangl of Motley, was also not wearing a seat belt and suffered life-threatening injuries. Gangl was taken to CentraCare St. Cloud Hospital.
The Peterbilt driver, 51-year-old Aaron Leroy Fenstermaker of Pequot Lakes, reported no injuries. Alcohol was not suspected for any of the drivers or passengers listed in the report.
The accident remains under investigation as officials work to establish the circumstances surrounding the collision.
We hope for the best possible recovery for those hurt in the wreck.
What Can Happen When a Passenger Is Not Wearing a Seat Belt?
Seat belts are designed to keep people securely positioned inside a vehicle during a collision. Without one, a passenger can move forcefully within the cabin or be thrown from the vehicle, increasing the risk of serious harm.
Airbags provide another layer of protection, but they are designed to work with seat belts, not replace them. Proper seating position also matters, since airbags can cause injuries when a person is too close to them.
Rear-end collisions can produce different types of injuries depending on vehicle size, speed, and how quickly the vehicles stop. Neck, back, chest, and head injuries can occur, while larger commercial vehicles may respond differently than passenger cars.
Medical evaluation can help identify injuries that are not immediately obvious after a collision.
