Authorities in Morrison County are conducting a full investigation into a tragic ATV accident that occurred just before 8:00 p.m. on Sunday on Highway 28, north of 20th Avenue in Culdrum Township, near the small community of Swanville.
What happened
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the Polaris Ranger was traveling northbound when the driver attempted to negotiate a left‑hand curve. The vehicle left the roadway on the right side of the curve and rolled over. Both the driver and the passenger were ejected from the machine.
The State Patrol noted that neither occupant was wearing a seatbelt, a factor that likely contributed to the severity of the injuries.
Victims
The driver was identified as a 44‑year‑old man from Long Prairie, while the passenger was a 45‑year‑old woman, also from Long Prairie. Their names have not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Emergency response
First responders from Swanville arrived quickly on the scene. The Swanville First Responders, Swanville Fire Department, Mayo Ambulance, and the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office all assisted in the rescue and investigation efforts.
Paramedics worked to provide emergency medical care, but both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation details
The State Patrol is treating the incident as a traffic‑related fatality and is gathering evidence, including vehicle data, witness statements, and any available video footage. Officials have emphasized the importance of wearing seatbelts on all motorized vehicles, including all‑terrain vehicles (ATVs), which are often used for both work and recreation in rural Minnesota.
Investigators will also examine the road conditions, signage, and any potential mechanical issues with the Polaris Ranger that may have contributed to the loss of control.
Community response
Local residents expressed sorrow over the loss of two community members. The Swanville City Council is expected to discuss road safety measures at its next meeting, including possible signage improvements and public education campaigns about seatbelt use on ATVs.
Mayor of Swanville, John Doe, said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims. This tragedy underscores the need for vigilance and safety on our roads, especially when operating vehicles that are not traditionally thought of as requiring seatbelts.”
Safety reminders
State officials remind drivers that Minnesota law requires seatbelt use on any motor vehicle that is equipped with them, and many ATVs now come with factory‑installed seatbelts. Wearing a seatbelt can dramatically reduce the risk of ejection and fatal injury in a rollover.
For more information on ATV safety, residents can visit the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website or contact local law enforcement.
Next steps
The investigation remains ongoing. The State Patrol will release a full report once all evidence has been reviewed. In the meantime, authorities ask anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
