Fort Ripley, MN (September 4, 2026) – Two people were injured after a two-vehicle crash on Wednesday, September 2, on Highway 371 near 273rd Street in Fort Ripley, Crow Wing County.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, a 2006 Chevrolet Tahoe was traveling westbound on 273rd Street while a 2020 Buick Encore was traveling southbound on Highway 371. The vehicles collided in the southbound lanes of the highway.
The Tahoe’s driver, 57-year-old Todd Lee Koning of Randall, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Essentia Health – St. Joseph Clinic. His passenger, 41-year-old Robert James Bollig, also of Randall, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to CHI St. Gabriel’s Hospital.
The Buick Encore was driven by 75-year-old Larry Richard Vilinski of Little Falls. Fortunately, he was not injured.
All three people were wearing seat belts, and airbags deployed in both vehicles. The roadway was dry at the time of the crash. Crow Wing County, Morrison County, North Ambulance, Camp Ripley Fire, and Little Falls Fire assisted at the scene.
We hope for a swift recovery for the victims.
What Should Drivers Know About Highway Intersections?
Intersections where local roads cross highways can create risks because vehicles traveling on roads with different speed limits must share the same space. Drivers approaching a highway intersection should pay close attention to traffic signals, signs, and other vehicles before entering or crossing the roadway. Extra caution is especially important when turning onto or crossing a highway with faster-moving traffic.
Drivers should maintain a safe speed and remain prepared for vehicles entering the roadway from side streets. Checking both directions before proceeding can help identify approaching traffic that may be difficult to see at first. Motorists should also avoid distractions and leave enough space to react if another vehicle enters the intersection unexpectedly.
Seat belts are an important part of vehicle safety for both drivers and passengers. They help keep occupants properly positioned during a crash and work together with airbags to reduce the risk of serious injury. Everyone in a vehicle should remain buckled throughout the trip, regardless of whether the drive is on a local road or a major highway.
