OGILVIE, Kanabec County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Brainerd man was hurt after a semi rolled onto its side along Highway 23 Tuesday night. The crash happened near Maria Avenue at 7:28 p.m. on November 25. The Minnesota State Patrol released the report early Wednesday.
According to the State Patrol, a 2003 Volvo tractor-truck was eastbound on Highway 23 near Maria Avenue. The driver later told troopers he hit a heavy patch of slush in the lane. The truck was pulled toward the ditch on the snowy and icy roadway. The Volvo then left the road and tipped onto its side in the ditch.
Road conditions were listed as snow and ice at the time of the crash. No other vehicles were involved, and no secondary collisions were reported. The public crash report is available through the Minnesota State Patrol website. Officials say the information in the report is believed to be complete.
The Volvo was driven by Christopher Michael Scearcy, 46, of Brainerd. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries in the rollover. He was taken by ambulance to Welia Health in Mora for treatment. The State Patrol notes that he was wearing a seat belt. Alcohol was not involved in the crash.
Welia Ambulance crews responded to the scene to treat the injured driver. The Ogilvie Fire Department assisted with scene safety and traffic control. First responders worked along a dark, snowy stretch of Highway 23 while traffic passed the scene at reduced speeds.
The incident is listed under reference number ICR 25801802. The State Patrol’s report shows the last update at 6:05 a.m. on November 26. Officials do not expect major changes to the crash summary unless new information appears.
Troopers continue to urge drivers to slow down when slush and packed snow appear on the roadway. Slush can quickly grab tires and pull vehicles out of their lane. Even experienced truck drivers can lose control when surface conditions change without warning.
Drivers are encouraged to check road and weather conditions before traveling. State officials recommend using the Minnesota 511 travel system for live updates on crashes, closures, and winter driving alerts. Extra time, slower speeds, and longer following distances can help prevent serious crashes during winter storms.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.