Multi-Vehicle Crash on Interstate 35 in Pine County Injures One on April 2, 2025
On April 2, 2025, at 11:41 a.m., a multi-vehicle accident occurred on northbound Interstate 35 at milepost 175 in Pokegama Township, Pine County, Minnesota, as reported by the Minnesota State Patrol under Incident Case Report 25270579. The incident involved a 2021 Ford F150 towing a 2017 KYRV Passport trailer, driven by Jesus A. Vargas, 64, of Moose Lake, Minnesota. According to the report, the trailer began swaying after crossing a bridge on snow- and ice-covered roads, causing the truck and trailer to veer into a ditch and roll over. During this event, the trailer struck a passing 2023 Freightliner semi driven by Jason S. Witt, 44, of Knoxville, Tennessee, and a 2008 Utility Trailer MFG Company vehicle was also involved in the collision.
Pamela Jean Vargas, 60, a passenger in the Ford F150, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Essentia Sandstone for medical attention. Jesus A. Vargas and Jason S. Witt reported no injuries. The Ford F150’s airbag deployed, while no airbags deployed in the semi or trailers. All individuals were wearing seat belts, and no alcohol involvement was noted. The Pine County Sheriff’s Office and Essentia Ambulance assisted at the scene, and the investigation remains complete as of the last update on April 2, 2025, at 2:11 p.m.
