Multiple-Vehicle Crash on I-35E in Eagan Involving Ducks Crossing the Road
Updated - 3:40 PM on July 11th:
EAGAN, MINNESOTA—On Thursday morning, a traffic accident involving three vehicles occurred on I-35E just north of Yankee Doodle Road in Eagan, Minnesota. The crash resulted in minor injuries and traffic delays in the area as crews worked to clear the crash and investigate the cause.
According to Minnesota State Patrol, the crash occurred around 11:25 AM and was caused when a driver, spotting ducks crossing the road, abruptly swerved to the shoulder and then exited their vehicle to assist the animals. This sudden action led to an immediate traffic slowdown, resulting in a three-vehicle collision that partially blocked the far left lane of northbound I-35E.
The vehicles involved in the crash included:
A 2017 Toyota Highlander: Driven by a 40-year-old female who was transported to the hospital via ambulance with non-life-threatening injuries.
A 2019 Honda CR-V: Driven by a 52-year-old male.
A 2013 Ford Econoline van: Driven by a 68-year-old male.
Emergency responders from Eagan Police, Eagan Fire, MHealth, and Minnesota State Patrol quickly arrived to assist.
The Minnesota State Patrol has confirmed that the driver who swerved and stopped for the ducks received a citation for a non-emergency stop on the freeway. They also recommend that if you ever come across animals in the roadway, you do not stop but instead call 911.
Written by: Will Wight