JACKSON TOWNSHIP, Scott County (trfnews.i234.me) — A 46-year-old Chaska woman died after a high-speed rear-end crash on Highway 169 late Sunday night. The crash occurred near Marystown Road at 11:39 p.m. on November 23. The Minnesota State Patrol released the report early Monday morning.
According to the report, a 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt was traveling south on Highway 169 at the posted speed limit. A 2019 GMC Acadia approached from behind at a high rate of speed. The Acadia struck the rear driver’s side of the Cobalt. The impact pushed the Cobalt into the right ditch. The car hit a culvert and rolled before coming to rest.
The GMC Acadia came to a stop in the right lane facing the wrong direction. Road conditions were dry at the time of the crash. No other vehicles were involved. The crash summary is listed under reference number ICR 25514729. Officials say information is believed to be complete. The full crash report is available on the Minnesota State Patrol website.
The Cobalt was driven by Kala Karlene Henry, 46, of Chaska. She died from her injuries. She was transported to St. Francis Regional Medical Center. The State Patrol says she was wearing a seat belt. Alcohol was not involved in her case.
The GMC Acadia was driven by Goay Gatluak Jikany, 20, of Shakopee. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries. He was taken to M Health Fairview Southdale for treatment. The report states he was not wearing a seat belt. Alcohol was involved.
Responders from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Shakopee Police, and Shakopee Fire Department assisted at the scene. Allina EMS handled medical care and transport. Traffic on Highway 169 slowed as crews worked through the overnight hours.
Rear-end crashes at highway speeds often lead to severe injuries or fatalities. Troopers urge drivers to reduce speed, increase following distance, and avoid impaired driving. Even dry roads can become deadly when speeding is involved.
Drivers can check statewide travel alerts, crash reports, and weather conditions using the Minnesota 511 travel system. The service offers live updates to help motorists plan safer trips.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
Goay Gatluak Jikany