Wealthwood Township, MN (trfnews.i234.me) — On Friday, May 9, 2025, at approximately 2:04 p.m., a 2017 Ford Explorer traveling eastbound on Highway 18 encountered an unexpected hazard when a wild turkey struck the vehicle’s windshield. The impact caused the SUV to veer off the roadway and roll into the south ditch near 360th Avenue in Wealthwood Township, Aitkin County.
The driver, 48-year-old Jennifer Rheon Geren of Wealthwood, was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the incident. She sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Riverwood Hospital for treatment.
Emergency responders from the Aitkin County Sheriff’s Office and North Memorial Ambulance assisted at the scene. The road conditions were reported as dry, and alcohol was not a factor in the crash.
Did You Know?
-
Wildlife-vehicle collisions are a significant concern in Minnesota, with turkeys increasingly involved in such incidents due to their growing population.
-
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources advises drivers to be especially vigilant during dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active.
-
Properly functioning airbags and seatbelt use significantly reduce the risk of injury in rollover accidents.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.