Rice County (trfnews.i234.me) — Semi-Truck Crashes, Rolls Into Ditch on I-35
Rice County (trfnews.i234.me) was the scene of a terrifying semi-truck rollover crash early Tuesday morning. According to authorities, a 2022 Western Semi-Truck was traveling northbound on Interstate 35 when it suddenly veered off the road, entered the ditch, and rolled over.
The crash was reported on March 4, 2025, at 6:48 AM at Milepost 74 in Webster Township. Emergency responders, including the Northfield Fire Department and Rice County Sheriff’s Office, quickly arrived on the scene.
Driver Identified – Injuries Reported
The driver has been identified as 33-year-old Oleh Atiahin of Shippensburg, PA. Fortunately, despite the violent crash, his injuries were reported as non-life-threatening. He was transported to Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) for treatment.
What Caused the Crash?
Investigators noted that the road was dry at the time of the crash, ruling out poor weather conditions. They also confirmed that alcohol was not a factor. The driver was wearing his seatbelt, which likely helped minimize his injuries.
Ongoing Investigation
While authorities believe they have complete information about the crash, the cause remains under investigation. Anyone with further details is encouraged to contact the Rochester District Office at 507-923-2040.
This incident serves as a reminder of how quickly accidents can happen on Minnesota highways, even under good driving conditions.
Did you know?
In the U.S., over 500,000 trucking accidents occur annually, with around 5,000 resulting in fatalities. Despite strict regulations, driver fatigue, distractions, and sudden maneuvers contribute to many crashes.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News