2 Dead, 1 Injured in Dakota County Head-on Crash
Authorities say a head-on crash in Rosemount Monday afternoon resulted in the deaths of two people, with critical injuries to a third.
At around 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 14, deputies were dispatched to County Road 46 near Biscayne Avenue after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a serious collision.
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Witnesses told authorities that 15-year-old David Rosas, of Rosemount, was driving a 2012 Ford Fusion eastbound on County Road 46. Rosas was following behind a semi-truck when he attempted to pass it by crossing into the westbound lane in a marked no-passing zone, authorities said.
An oncoming 2014 Lincoln MKX, driven by 81-year-old Dennis Dahlstrom, was westbound with 78-year-old Sandra Dahlstrom as his passenger, both of Champaign, Ill. Witnesses reported that both drivers tried to avoid the collision by swerving toward the north shoulder, but they collided head-on at high speed, just moments before either vehicle could return to the road.
The crash impact was so severe that both drivers, Rosas and Dennis Dahlstrom, were pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. Sandra Dahlstrom sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a hospital for treatment. Her current condition has not been released.
Bystanders in the area stopped to help in the immediate aftermath, rendering aid to the victims before emergency personnel arrived. Responding agencies included the Rosemount Police Department, Rosemount Fire Department, Allina Health paramedics and the Minnesota State Patrol providing additional assistance at the scene.
The Dakota County Sheriff’s Office acknowledged the efforts of both the witnesses who stopped to help and the first responders who worked to save lives. “We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families and friends involved in this tragic incident,” the department said in a written statement.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation and authorities have not confirmed whether factors like speed, distracted driving, impairment or mechanical issues contributed to the collision. Minnesota State Patrol is assisting with reconstruction of the crash.
It’s an active and ongoing investigation, and the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office will release additional details as they become available.
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