THIEF RIVER FALLS, MN (trfnews.i234.me) – A two-vehicle crash at a busy Thief River Falls intersection left a pickup driver reporting neck and back injuries.
The accident happened on October 18, 2026, at approximately 7:25 a.m. near First Street and Third Street, also known as Highway 59.
According to a Thief River Falls Police Department report, a Jeep Cherokee struck the rear of a Ford F-150 stopped at a traffic signal.
Jeep Rear-Ends Pickup at Red Light
Police reported that Lynsie Westling of Thief River Falls was driving a 2016 Jeep Cherokee eastbound along First Street.
At the same time, James Kukowski of Strathcona was driving a 2024 Ford F-150.
Kukowski had stopped his pickup at the intersection while waiting for a red traffic light.
According to the accident report, Westling’s Jeep then rear-ended Kukowski’s stationary pickup.
The report did not provide additional details about what caused the collision.
Pickup Driver Reports Injuries
Following the crash, Kukowski reported suffering whiplash and soreness in his back.
Whiplash can occur when a person’s head and neck move suddenly during a vehicle collision.
Rear-end crashes are one common cause of this type of injury.
The police report did not specify whether Kukowski required transportation to a hospital or additional medical treatment.
No injuries involving Westling were identified in the information provided.
Police Release Accident Report
The Thief River Falls Police Department received the initial accident report at approximately 7:25 a.m. on October 18.
The report was later provided to the local newspaper on October 29, 2026.
The available information does not indicate whether citations were issued in connection with the collision.
Motorists traveling through intersections are reminded to maintain adequate following distances and watch for vehicles stopped at traffic signals.
Additional information about Minnesota traffic laws is available through the Minnesota Office of the Revisor of Statutes.
I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.
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