Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) Law enforcement responded after a report of a woman lying in a snowbank in Thief River Falls. The call came in on the afternoon of Dec. 28. The reported location was near the intersection of Fourth Street and Knight Avenue.
According to the sheriff’s office, the reporting party said the woman had blood on her body. The report did not describe the injury. It did not list how much blood was seen. It also did not explain what may have caused it.
A deputy responded and made contact with the woman. Authorities said the deputy ensured the woman made it home safely. The woman told law enforcement she was fine. She also declined further medical care.
Sanford Ambulance also reported on scene
Another source indicated Sanford Ambulance also responded to the scene. The sheriff’s office report did not confirm whether the woman was treated by medics. It also did not say if she was transported to a hospital.
TRF News is not naming the woman at this time. Her name was not released in the information provided. No arrest was listed in the incident entry. No criminal charges were reported in connection with the call.
What remains unclear
Officials did not say how long the woman had been outside. The report did not explain why she was in the snowbank. It also did not state whether she fell or was injured elsewhere. No additional details were listed about the reported blood.
This type of call is often handled as a welfare check. In winter weather, exposure can become serious fast. Even short time outside can lead to cold stress. That includes frostbite and hypothermia.
Cold weather safety reminder
If you find someone outside in extreme cold, call 911 right away. If it is safe, stay with the person until help arrives. Try to get them out of the wind. Use a coat or blanket to add warmth. Avoid giving alcohol.
For more on winter safety, visit the National Weather Service cold safety page. You can also review hypothermia warning signs from the CDC. Information about Sanford services is available at Sanford Health.
This is a brief report based on the initial information available. If more details are released, TRF News will update.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.