Red Lake County: Fatal Hwy 59 Head-On Crash

Red Lake County: Fatal Hwy 59 Head-On Crash
Red Lake County: Fatal Hwy 59 Head-On Crash

Red Lake County, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A fatal two-vehicle crash was reported on Highway 59 in Emardville Township on Wednesday morning, Jan. 7, 2026.

Where it happened

The crash was reported at 6:51 a.m. It happened on Highway 59 near milepost 344, according to officials.

What officials say happened

Officials say a 2005 Nissan Frontier pickup was traveling southbound on Highway 59. A 2023 Freightliner semi tractor was traveling northbound on Highway 59.

Officials say the vehicles collided in a head-on crash.

Red Lake County: Fatal Hwy 59 Head-On Crash
Red Lake County: Fatal Hwy 59 Head-On Crash

Road conditions

Officials listed the road condition as snow and ice. Drivers were urged to slow down in winter conditions.

You can check current road conditions at Minnesota 511.

Drivers identified

The Nissan Frontier driver who died was identified as Gunner Thorpe, 18, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota.

The Freightliner driver was identified as Robert Grant Nichols, 61, of LaPorte, Minnesota.

Injuries

The crash is classified as fatal in the incident report. The report lists Nichols with no injuries.

 

Response and investigation

Several agencies responded, including Plummer Fire Department, Red Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and Oklee Ambulance.

Officials say the information is believed to be complete. The report was last updated on Jan. 8, 2026.

For general traffic safety information, visit the Minnesota State Patrol.

How to contact investigators

Anyone with information can contact officials at 218-683-8410.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.

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