A head-on crash on U.S. Highway 169 in Kathio Township (Mille Lacs County) has left families grieving and searching for answers. If you or a loved one was injured, or if you lost someone you love, this page explains what’s publicly known so far, what legal options may exist under Minnesota law, and what legal steps can be taken to help your family in the days ahead.
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What we know about the Hwy 169 crash (Feb. 25, 2026)
According to the Minnesota State Patrol’s incident report, the crash happened at 6:56 p.m. on Feb. 25, 2026 on Hwy 169 near milepost 222, just north of Shakopee Lake Road in Kathio Township, Mille Lacs County. The Patrol report states that a northbound 2004 Buick LeSabre crossed the center line and struck a southbound 2005 Saab 9-5 head-on.
Multiple Minnesota news outlets reported that four people were killed and one person was critically/seriously injured.
Identities: As of the State Patrol update posted late Feb. 25, the report indicates the names of victims would be released on Feb. 26, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.
Why head-on crashes often require a deeper investigation
In many head-on collisions, the key question is why a vehicle crossed the center line. That can involve factors like:
- Distraction (phone use, navigation, fatigue)
- Impairment
- Speeding or unsafe passing
- Mechanical failure (tires, brakes, steering)
- Roadway design or maintenance issues (markings, signage, shoulder drop-offs)
- Medical emergencies
A serious crash can also involve multiple insurance policies (drivers, passengers, household coverage, umbrella policies, underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage). A lawyer’s investigation typically focuses on preserving evidence early, before vehicles are repaired/scrapped and before memories fade.
Minnesota insurance basics after a serious crash
1) Your first claim is often “no-fault” (PIP)
Minnesota is a no-fault state, meaning many injured people begin with Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, which can pay medical bills, wage loss, and replacement services regardless of who caused the crash.
The Minnesota Department of Commerce also notes important deadlines and minimums (including that no-fault claims generally must be made within six months, and that the minimum no-fault coverage is $40,000).
2) When can you sue for pain, suffering, and other losses?
While Minnesota law limits “non-economic” damages (pain, suffering, etc.) unless certain thresholds are met, statute includes a medical-expense threshold and also allows recovery when the injury results in permanent injury, disfigurement, disability for 60+ days, or death. In a fatal crash, the focus becomes proving fault and documenting the family’s losses. Our attorneys handle the entire legal process to investigate and pursue the maximum compensation you and your family are entitled to.
Helpful explainers: Minnesota Car Accident Compensation and Auto Insurance Claim Lawyers.
Wrongful death claims in Minnesota (basic overview)
When a death is caused by a wrongful act or omission, Minnesota’s wrongful death statute provides that a court-appointed trustee may bring the claim for the benefit of the surviving spouse and next of kin.
The statute also states that most wrongful death actions must be started within three years of the date of death, and (for most cases) no later than six years after the act or omission.
Our attorneys have decades of experience helping families with legal cases involving wrongful death. We understand how hard a process this can be for family members. We are ready to take the burdens off your plate and handle all the legal aspects for you.
(General injury claims often have longer deadlines; Minnesota’s “six-year limitation” statute includes actions “for any other injury to the person.” )
What to do if you were injured (or lost a loved one) in a Mille Lacs or Aitkin County crash
Here are practical steps that often help protect a family’s health and legal rights:
- Get medical care and follow up. Head-on crashes frequently cause internal injuries, concussions, and spine injuries that can worsen over days.
- Document everything. Save discharge papers, bills, diagnoses, prescriptions, and mileage to appointments.
- Preserve evidence. Keep photos, clothing, helmets, and the vehicle (if possible). Ask family members not to discard anything from the car.
- Request the crash report when available and keep the incident/case number.
- Be careful with recorded statements. Insurance adjusters may ask early questions before the full medical picture is clear. We advise that, whenever possible, have your legal representative present when speaking to insurance adjusters.
- Track work impacts. Wage loss, missed shifts, and reduced capacity can become major parts of a claim.
- If there was a death, consider trustee appointment early. Minnesota wrongful death claims commonly require a trustee, and the timing matters.
This crash happened in a county that has seen other recent severe crashes
Unfortunately, the Hwy 169 corridor in Mille Lacs County has seen multiple serious, roadway-crossing collisions:
- Feb. 24, 2026 (one day earlier): A fatal two-vehicle crash at Hwy 169 and 460th Street in Kathio Township occurred when a vehicle lost control on snow/ice, crossed into the oncoming lane, and was struck; the State Patrol report identifies the person who died and lists another driver as non-life-threatening injured.
- Aug. 17, 2025: Another fatal head-on crash in South Harbor Township (Mille Lacs County) occurred when a southbound vehicle went over the center line and hit a northbound pickup head-on. Two people were airlifted with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Nov. 13, 2023 (Mille Lacs County): Investigators reported a fatal hit-and-run on Hwy 169 near Grand Casino Mille Lacs, involving a doctor who was walking her dogs.
How Pritzker Hageman can help after a catastrophic crash
Families want answers, accountability, and financial security, especially when injuries are life-altering or a loved one is gone.
Our firm helps crash victims and families with:
- Investigating fault (including distraction, impairment, fatigue, and mechanical issues)
- Handling insurance claims and communications
- Pursuing lawsuits for full compensation when Minnesota law allows
- Wrongful death claims and the trustee process
How Can Our Lawyers Help You?
Phone: 1-888-377-8900 | Text: 612-261-8856 | [email protected]
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