South Bend Township, MN (June 24, 2026) – Two people suffered injuries following a two-vehicle collision on Monday afternoon at the intersection of Highway 169 and Highway 68 in Blue Earth County.
According to authorities, the crash occurred at approximately 12:03 p.m. on June 22 in South Bend Township. Investigators reported that a 2015 Ram 1500 was traveling southbound on Highway 68 and attempting to turn to travel northbound on Highway 169 when it collided with a southbound 2018 Toyota Tundra in the intersection.
The driver of the Ram, 18-year-old Juhlianna Rose Marquette of Mankato, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. A passenger in the pickup, 31-year-old Cody Aaron Brown of Mankato, also suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to MCHS for treatment.
The driver of the Toyota, 66-year-old James Paul Miedtke of Granada, was not injured. Authorities noted that road conditions were dry at the time of the collision; they will continue to review the circumstances surrounding the crash.
We hope those injured experience a full and speedy recovery.
Why Intersection Collisions Are Frequent During Turning Movements?
Intersections require drivers to make decisions while monitoring traffic from multiple directions. When one vehicle is turning, and another is proceeding through an intersection, timing and visibility can play important roles in determining whether vehicles can safely navigate the crossing.
Left-turn movements are closely examined after collisions because drivers must judge the speed and distance of approaching traffic before entering another vehicle’s path. Even small miscalculations can result in roadway encounters that lead to injuries and vehicle damage.
Investigators reviewing intersection crashes may examine vehicle positions, traffic controls, witness statements, and physical evidence from the scene. These details can help establish a timeline of events and provide a clearer understanding of the factors that contributed to the collision.
