Vehicle struck pickup truck on 135th Avenue Northeast
December 06, 2025 | Harrison Township, MN
An 88-year-old woman from Belgrade lost her life in a devastating two-vehicle collision in Harrison Township on Dec. 6.
The incident involved an SUV and a pickup truck, leaving both drivers injured and prompting an ongoing investigation by local authorities.
Janice Hazen, 88, died after her SUV collided with pickup truck at Tri-County Road and 135th Avenue Northeast in Harrison Township.
What Happened in the Crash?
The accident unfolded at the intersection of Tri-County Road and 135th Avenue Northeast. According to the Kandiyohi County Sheriff’s Office, Janice Hazen was a passenger in an SUV operated by a 74-year-old man when it collided with a pickup truck. The collision resulted in Hazen's death at the scene, while the drivers sustained injuries requiring medical attention.
- Date: Dec. 6, 2025
- Location: Tri-County Road and 135th Avenue Northeast, Harrison Township, MN
- Vehicles Involved: SUV and pickup truck
- Victims: Janice Hazen, 88, passenger, deceased, and 74-year-old male driver, injured, and a pickup truck driver, injured
- Investigating Agency: Kandiyohi County Sheriff’s Office
Why Do These Accidents Happen?
Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death across the United States, with factors like speeding, impairment, and distracted driving contributing significantly. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 42,939 people died in traffic fatalities in 2021 alone, underscoring the persistent risks on roadways.
Common Causes of Fatal Crashes |
Percentage Contribution (NHTSA Data) |
Description |
|---|
Speeding |
29% |
Exceeding posted limits increases crash severity |
Impairment (Alcohol/Drugs) |
25% |
Reduced reaction times and poor judgment |
Distracted Driving |
8% |
Includes phone use and other diversions |
Failure to Yield |
20% |
Not giving right-of-way at intersections |
Improper Lane Use |
12% |
Sudden lane changes without signaling |
This table highlights preventable factors that authorities and safety professionals aim to address through education and enforcement.
Legal Insights
In cases such as this involving motor vehicle accidents, a thorough investigation is essential to uncover contributing elements and support affected parties. National legal analysts at Newsline provide guidance on navigating these complex situations.
“Prompt, independent investigations help preserve vital evidence and protect the rights of those affected by crashes,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Legal professionals can offer advice to ensure statements are not misused by authorities or insurers.”
Key takeaways from analyst insights:
- Review potential crash contributors like road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driver behavior
- Hire specialists for background checks, witness interviews, and insurance evaluations
- Guide families through emotional and legal challenges with compassion and advocacy
“Wrongful acts leading to fatalities, such as negligent driving, often open avenues for civil claims against responsible parties,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.
Pending investigation outcomes, Hazen's family may pursue compensation for expenses, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.
Newsline, owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds rigorous editorial standards as a premier digital news platform. Our unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity ensures accurate, timely reporting. For transparency, review our Corrections Policy, which guarantees 24-hour reviews of any concerns.
Interested in reaching audiences through quality journalism? Advertise with Newsline to connect with readers in insurance, automotive, and legal sectors.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.
If you or a family member has been affected by a similar incident, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free consultation. Use the contact information provided on this page.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).