CHATFIELD, MN — The Minnesota State Patrol says two drivers died after a crash on Hwy. 52 between Rochester and Chatfield late Wednesday night. The collision happened around 11:45 p.m. at the highway’s intersection with Olmsted County Road 7.
Investigators said a southbound Jeep and a northbound SUV were involved. The two drivers were the only people in the vehicles.
Victims identified by patrol
On Friday, the State Patrol identified the SUV driver as 40-year-old Devon Peri Williams of Preston. The Jeep driver was identified as 62-year-old Samuel A. Hernandez of Chicago.
Updated crash information says Williams died from his injuries at St. Mary’s Hospital. Hernandez was pronounced dead at the scene.
Weather and road conditions
The patrol said both drivers were wearing seat belts. Williams was not under the influence of alcohol, according to the report.
A test to determine whether alcohol was in Hernandez’s system is still pending. Officials also said Hwy. 52 was wet at the time of the crash.
Investigators still reviewing
The State Patrol has not said which vehicle crossed into the oncoming lane before the collision. The preliminary report does not give a final explanation for how the crash unfolded.
Emergency responders at the scene included Mayo Clinic Ambulance, Chatfield Ambulance, the Chatfield Fire Department, the Rochester Fire Department, the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office and Rochester towing.
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