Willmar, MN (April 12, 2026) – A 68-year-old man died Friday, April 10, after being struck by a vehicle while he was checking on people involved in a prior crash on Hwy 40 west of Willmar. Authorities reported that the earlier incident involved two vehicles traveling eastbound when they collided.
Following that crash, the man identified as Jeffrey Dean Bauman stopped his vehicle and got out to check on the occupants of both cars. He was standing outside his vehicle when an eastbound Chevy Equinox struck him on the roadway.
Emergency units responded to the scene, where Bauman was later pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed that no one was injured in the initial two-vehicle crash that preceded the fatal impact.
Investigators have not released additional details regarding the circumstances leading up to the second impact. The incident remains under review by authorities.
We extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
What Happens in Secondary Crashes on High-Speed Roads Like Hwy 40?
Secondary crashes can occur when a new collision happens shortly after an initial traffic incident. These situations often involve stopped or slowed vehicles, as well as drivers or pedestrians on or near the roadway. Reduced visibility, traffic buildup, and sudden lane obstructions can increase risk for additional impacts.
On highways, drivers may have limited time to react when encountering an unexpected scene ahead. This can be especially dangerous if people exit vehicles or stand near moving traffic lanes. Even brief moments outside a vehicle can expose individuals to passing traffic at highway speeds.
Roadway conditions, lighting, and driver awareness all influence how quickly a situation can escalate. In many cases, traffic flow disruption after an initial crash creates unpredictable movement patterns that increase the likelihood of further incidents.
