SIBLEY COUNTY, Minn. — A tragic head-on collision on a rural stretch of Highway 19 has left a 17-year-old girl from Henderson dead and three others with life-threatening injuries, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
The crash occurred shortly after 1:00 a.m. Saturday near 441st Avenue, just east of Gaylord. Authorities say a Pontiac Bonneville, driven eastbound by Mya Jean Maus, 17, collided head-on with a westbound Chevrolet K30 pickup operated by another 17-year-old male.
Despite wearing her seat belt and with airbags deployed, Maus was pronounced dead at the scene. The young driver of the truck, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported to Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) with serious injuries.
Two adult passengers in the truck — Andrew Dennis Cohrs, 50, of Glencoe, and Mitchel Randy Frauendienst, 41, of Winthrop — were also hospitalized at HCMC in critical condition. Neither was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
Investigation and Contributing Factors
The State Patrol reported that road conditions were dry at the time of the collision. Alcohol was noted as a contributing factor for the two adult passengers in the truck, though both teen drivers were confirmed to be sober.
Emergency responders from the Sibley County Sheriff’s Office, Gaylord Fire Department, and Arlington Fire Department worked alongside troopers at the scene. The crash remains under active investigation.
Community Impact
News of the accident has deeply shaken Henderson, a close-knit community where families often know each other personally. As details of the crash spread on Saturday morning, friends, neighbors, and classmates expressed grief and disbelief over the sudden loss of a teenager so full of promise.
Local schools are preparing to offer counseling resources to students and staff, recognizing that the tragedy will weigh heavily on young people as they return to class. Community leaders say gatherings are already being discussed to provide support for the families involved.
Road Safety Concerns
The incident also underscores ongoing concerns about safety on Minnesota’s rural highways. Head-on collisions are among the most deadly types of crashes, and the State Patrol continues to emphasize the lifesaving importance of seat belt use.
While Maus was restrained, none of the occupants in the pickup had seat belts on — a factor authorities say may have contributed to the severity of their injuries. Troopers frequently warn that nearly half of fatal crashes in Minnesota involve unbelted occupants.
Moving Forward
As investigators work to piece together the full circumstances of the crash, families of those involved are left grappling with loss, grief, and uncertainty. The Henderson community, though shaken, is rallying around the victims’ loved ones with prayers, tributes, and support during this difficult time.
The State Patrol is expected to release further details as the investigation continues.
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