Deadly Crash Kills Mother, Injures Family in Stearns County

A 16-year-old driver's SUV collided with a pickup truck at a stop-controlled intersection, resulting in tragic consequences.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:56pm

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An extreme close-up of a crumpled car part or piece of physical evidence from the crash site, lit by a harsh, direct flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the gritty, investigative nature of the incident.A harsh, unforgiving close-up of the aftermath of a tragic intersection collision that claimed a life and left a family shattered.South Haven Today

A 56-year-old woman was killed and several family members were injured in a two-vehicle crash in central Minnesota on Sunday evening. Authorities say the SUV driven by the woman's 16-year-old son entered the intersection, which was controlled by stop signs, and collided with a northbound pickup truck. The impact caused the SUV to roll, and the survivors were taken to the hospital with a range of injuries.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of intersection crashes and the devastating impact they can have on families. It also raises questions about teen driving safety and the importance of proper training and supervision for young drivers.

The details

According to the Stearns County Sheriff's Office, the crash occurred around 7:20 p.m. on April 12 at the intersection of County Road 7 and County Road 44, north of Fairhaven Townsite. The 2022 Ford Expedition driven by 16-year-old Gavin Timmers was traveling westbound on County Road 44 and entered the intersection, which was controlled by stop signs for that direction of travel. The SUV then collided with a northbound Dodge Ram driven by 42-year-old Katie Payne of Maple Lake. The impact caused the Expedition to roll.

  • The crash occurred around 7:20 p.m. on April 12, 2026.
  • Tina Timmers, 56, of St. Augusta, died at the scene of the crash.

The players

Gavin Timmers

The 16-year-old driver of the Ford Expedition involved in the crash.

Tina Timmers

The 56-year-old woman who was killed in the crash.

Katie Payne

The 42-year-old driver of the Dodge Ram pickup truck involved in the collision.

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What’s next

The Minnesota State Patrol is conducting a crash reconstruction, and the incident remains under investigation.

The takeaway

This tragic crash serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safe driving practices, especially for young and inexperienced drivers. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to improve intersection safety and support families affected by such devastating incidents.