Ulen, MN (December 6, 2024) – At approximately 3:17 PM on December 4, 2024, a collision occurred between two vehicles traveling southbound on Highway 32 near Mile Marker 29 in Clay County. A 2018 Toyota Camry and a 2013 Chrysler Town & Country made contact, resulting in an accident that prompted emergency response to the scene.
The Toyota Camry, driven by Mathew Eric Larson, a 42-year-old male from Grand Forks, ND, was carrying two passengers: Mitchell Joseph Cote, a 54-year-old male from Fertile, MN, and Brandon Michael D. Jamesgaard, a 35-year-old male from Crookston, MN. While no injuries were reported for the driver or first passenger, Jamesgaard sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a Fargo healthcare facility for treatment.
The driver of the Chrysler Town & Country, Larry Herman Swiers, a 64-year-old male from Waubun, MN, was unharmed in the collision. All involved parties were wearing seat belts at the time of the incident, and there was no alcohol involved. No airbags deployed in either vehicle.
Emergency responders worked quickly at the scene to assess the situation, assist those in need, and ensure the safety of all parties involved. The accident caused some traffic disruption as authorities cleared the scene and conducted their investigation. Fortunately, the injuries sustained by Jamesgaard were non-life-threatening. Our thoughts are with those impacted by the accident and their families during this time.
Injury Accidents in Minnesota
Minnesota’s roads can become hazardous, especially during winter months, and accidents like this one emphasize the importance of being cautious while driving. The crash on Highway 32 near Mile Marker 29 occurred in the afternoon, a time when the road can still be quite busy with traffic. The collision involved two vehicles but fortunately did not result in life-threatening injuries.
Despite the non-life-threatening nature of the injuries in this case, the incident serves as a reminder to always exercise caution while on the road, especially when traveling at higher speeds or in busy traffic. Wearing seat belts, as all passengers and drivers in this crash did, is one of the simplest and most effective measures to reduce injury severity in the event of a collision.
The involvement of both a passenger vehicle (Toyota Camry) and a minivan (Chrysler Town & Country) highlights the variety of vehicles on the road and the potential for complex interactions between them. Both drivers and passengers must remain aware of each other’s movements, especially on high-traffic routes like Highway 32.
As local authorities work to understand the full details of this crash, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office will continue to evaluate potential contributing factors. However, the quick actions of emergency responders helped ensure that those involved were safely evaluated, and the road was cleared efficiently.
Local drivers are reminded to be mindful of changing road conditions and maintain proper vehicle spacing to reduce the risk of such collisions. Especially as the winter season brings new challenges, being prepared for unexpected events on the road can make all the difference in reducing risk.
Local Accident Reports urges all drivers to stay aware of their surroundings and adhere to safe driving practices, including wearing seat belts and driving within posted speed limits. Stay safe, and be vigilant as winter conditions continue to affect road safety.