Patricia Struiksma, Donna Vanthof die in two-vehicle crash on U.S. 75

Minivan collided with semi-truck at intersection with 21st Street in Elmer Township

December 24, 2025 | Elmer Township, MN

Two women from Chandler and Leota lost their lives in a tragic intersection crash on Dec. 24 in Pipestone County's Elmer Township. 

The Minnesota State Patrol reported the incident, which involved a minivan and a semi-truck, highlighting the dangers of rural roadways.

Patricia Ann Struiksma, 71, of Chandler, and Donna Jean Vanthof, 69, of Leota, were killed after their minivan crashed with a semi-truck at U.S. Highway 75 and 21st Street in Elmer Township.

What Happened in the Crash?

The collision unfolded around 1:42 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. Highway 75 and 21st Street. Key details include:

• Vehicles Involved: A 2006 Chrysler Town & Country minivan traveling westbound on 21st Street and a 2019 International semi-truck heading northbound on U.S. Highway 75.
• Collision Circumstances: The vehicles struck each other in the intersection for reasons still under investigation.
• Victims: Patricia Ann Struiksma, 71, of Chandler, who was driving the minivan, and passenger Donna Jean Vanthof, 69, of Leota, both succumbed to their injuries at the scene.
• Other Parties: The semi-truck driver sustained no injuries.
• Response: Emergency crews responded promptly, but the women could not be saved.

Authorities continue to examine factors that may have contributed to the accident.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Crashes at intersections, especially those involving large trucks, often stem from a mix of driver errors, vehicle issues, and environmental conditions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), truck-related fatalities underscore the need for vigilance on highways.

Common contributing factors include:

• Driver fatigue or distraction.
• Speeding or failure to yield at intersections.
• Mechanical failures like brake problems or tire blowouts.
• Adverse weather or poor visibility.

These figures, drawn from NHTSA reports, emphasize the severity of such incidents and the importance of thorough investigations.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes, independent reviews can uncover critical details overlooked in initial assessments. Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal, stresses the value of comprehensive investigations.

“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Bond, a national analyst for Newsline.

Key takeaways from analyst perspectives:

• Time-sensitive evidence collection is crucial to preserving facts.
• Families may pursue claims for loss of companionship and emotional distress.
• Professional guidance helps navigate complex liability questions.

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, adds insight on support for affected families.

“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one. If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve.”

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