Elsie Mae Lynn, Kenni Jade Lynn Injured in Bellevue Twp C...
A two-vehicle collision occurred near 83rd Street, sending two children to the hospital.
Elsie Mae Lynn, 3, and Kenni Jade Lynn, 5, both of Sartell, were injured in a car accident on Thursday, April 2, on Highway 10 near 83rd Street in Bellevue Township, Morrison County, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. Their vehicle, a 2017 Chevy Silverado, was driving westbound on Highway 10 when it was struck by a 2019 Toyota 4Runner. Icy road conditions contributed to the collision.
Investigators said the 4Runner, also heading westbound, fishtailed on the ice and hit the Silverado. Both vehicles then lost control, went into the right ditch, and became partially submerged in water. The Silverado rolled over before coming to rest back on its wheels. Airbags deployed in the Silverado.
The children were taken to St. Gabriel's Health Care Facility in Little Falls with non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the Silverado, Jonathan Harris Lynn, 40, of Sartell, was not injured. The driver of the Toyota 4Runner, Paulette Renae Hedlund, 60, of Hackensack, also reported no injuries.
The Minnesota State Patrol investigates crashes like the one on Highway 10 by examining various factors, including vehicle speed, tire condition, and any actions drivers took to avoid the collision. Snow and ice can significantly reduce tire grip, making it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles and increasing the distance needed to stop. This can be especially important on roads where conditions can change quickly.
Attorneys often conduct their own investigations into collisions, separate from law enforcement inquiries. "An independent investigation can be started immediately, preserving key evidence that might otherwise be lost," said personal injury attorney Fred Pritzker. This is particularly relevant in crashes that injure multiple people, like the one involving Elsie Mae Lynn and Kenni Jade Lynn, where figuring out fault can be complex.
Investigators examining crashes on icy roads look for specific evidence to help determine how the crash occurred. They consider skid marks, vehicle damage, and eyewitness statements. They also review weather reports and road maintenance records to understand the conditions when the crash happened. The Minnesota State Patrol's investigation will determine if charges will be filed against Paulette Renae Hedlund.
Minnesota follows a modified comparative fault (51% bar) system. The statute of limitations is 6 years, one of the longest in the nation.
Damages include economic and non-economic losses.