Deputy, Other Driver Injured in Southern Minnesota Crash

Collision occurred on Highway 52 near Pine Island

Mar. 16, 2026 at 2:05pm

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A Goodhue County sheriff's deputy was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after his parked squad car was struck by another vehicle on Saturday afternoon in southern Minnesota. The driver of the other vehicle, a 31-year-old man from Rochester, suffered life-threatening injuries and may have been drinking prior to the collision.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the risks law enforcement officers face even when their vehicles are parked, as well as the dangers of impaired driving on rural highways. The crash will likely prompt investigations into the cause and whether any policy changes are needed to improve officer safety.

The details

According to the Goodhue County Sheriff's Office, the deputy was parked on the shoulder of Highway 52 near Pine Island when his squad car was struck by the other vehicle. The deputy, a 29-year-old from Kenyon, was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the other car, a 31-year-old man from Rochester, suffered life-threatening injuries and may have been under the influence of alcohol prior to the collision.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon.

The players

Goodhue County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency responsible for the area where the crash took place.

Minnesota State Patrol

The state law enforcement agency that is investigating the collision.

31-year-old Rochester man

The driver of the vehicle that struck the deputy's parked squad car, who suffered life-threatening injuries and may have been impaired.

29-year-old Kenyon deputy

The sheriff's deputy whose parked vehicle was hit, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries.

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What’s next

The Minnesota State Patrol will continue its investigation into the cause of the crash and whether any charges will be filed against the driver of the other vehicle.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the risks law enforcement officers face even when their vehicles are parked, as well as the dangers of impaired driving on rural highways. It will likely prompt discussions about improving officer safety protocols and the need for continued vigilance against drunk driving.