On March 5, the Benton County Sheriff’s Office responded to a motor vehicle crash that took the life of a 31-year-old woman.
At about 3:50 p.m. Wednesday, Benton County deputies responded to the report of a serious motor vehicle crash on Ronneby Road SE, about one-half mile south of Duelm Road SE.
Responding deputies found a gray 2016 Buick Enclave, driven by Margaret Henry (age 43 of Sauk Rapids), had collided with a red 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt driven by Amanda Nieman (age 31 of Milaca). Henry and her 8-year-old passenger had non-life-threatening injuries and were treated on scene before being transported to the St. Cloud Hospital.
Nieman was found trapped within her vehicle with life-threatening injuries and required extrication. Once removed from the vehicle, first responders began life-saving measures. Nieman did not respond to the life-saving efforts and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigating deputies found evidence to indicate that, prior to the crash, Nieman had been driving northbound on Ronneby Road and Henry had been driving southbound on Ronneby Road. The roadway both north and south of the accident scene was clear and dry.
The roadway surface at the scene of the accident was covered in snow and ice due to the open terrain and gusting winds drifting snow across the roadway. Deputies found evidence indicating that, upon reaching this snow and ice, Nieman’s vehicle lost traction and began sliding on the roadway, just as she was meeting Henry’s vehicle. Nieman’s vehicle turned sideways across the southbound lane of traffic and was struck broadside by Henry’s vehicle.
Both vehicles sustained significant damage. Investigating deputies found no signs of impairment in either driver.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at this scene by the Minnesota State Patrol, Foley Fire Department, Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office, North Memorial Ambulance and Benton County Public Works.
