PRINCETON, MN — Four people were killed Monday afternoon in a three-vehicle crash in central Minnesota, according to the state patrol. The collision happened just before 3 p.m. in Princeton Township on Highway 95 near 75th Avenue.
Investigators said an 80-year-old woman driving a Honda SUV westbound crossed the center line and struck a Volkswagen sedan headed the other way. A tire from one of the vehicles then hit a Nissan sedan traveling behind the Volkswagen.
What investigators reported
The patrol said there were four people inside the Volkswagen, including two teenagers. The Honda and Nissan each had one occupant.
Officials said Tuesday morning they were not yet releasing the names of those killed or saying which vehicles they were in until families had been notified. The patrol said more information was expected Tuesday afternoon.
Church prepares vigil
A prayer vigil is set for Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at New Life Church in Princeton. Pastor Corey Kalinowski said the church wanted to give people a place to gather, find support and lean on one another.
He said three of the victims were congregants and described the four people killed as part of the church community and involved in its youth program.
Road safety concerns
Residents told WCCO the stretch of Highway 95 where the crash happened is known for speeding and risky passing. They said the speed limit changes between 45 and 60 mph, but drivers often go faster.
WCCO reviewed crash records for the road and found five fatal crashes there in the past 12 months, along with other nonfatal wrecks. A nearby business manager said drivers often try to pass even though the road has no shoulder and turning in or out can be difficult.
From the Twin Cities to the border and back, Travel Your Way keeps Minnesota informed.