Overview
- A northbound Lexus left the travel lanes and struck the passenger side of a Minnesota State Patrol squad that was parked for stationary speed enforcement just south of 220th Street on I-35, officials said.
- The crash occurred Sunday evening and left the trooper and the Lexus driver with serious injuries; both were taken to the hospital for treatment.
- The Minnesota Department of Transportation temporarily closed I-35 between Highway 97 and Exit 131 while emergency crews and investigators worked the scene.
- Forest Lake police, working with the Minnesota State Patrol, said preliminary evidence indicates alcohol may have been a factor but toxicology results and any potential charges have not been released.
- Investigators continue to process the scene and interview witnesses, and the collision raises questions about officer safety during stationary speed enforcement and traffic disruptions for nearby drivers.