WILLMAR, MN : Two hurt night in Highway 71 crash in Willmar on Sunday, 24th January 2021

Two drivers were treated for non-life-threatening injuries at Carris Health - Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar after their vehicles collided around 9 p.m. Saturday on U.S. Highway 71 at 45th Avenue Southeast on the south side of Willmar.

Jesus Jr. Ramirez, 32, of Renville, was driving a 1999 Ford Ranger south on Highway 71 when it spun out of control and ended up facing south in the northbound lanes of traffic. It became stalled due to a lack of traction, according to the Minnesota State Patrol accident report.

The roadway was snow- and ice-covered at the time. No alcohol was involved. The report indicates both drivers' airbags deployed but neither was wearing a seat belt

Travis Doug Zuidema, 41, of Franklin, was driving a 1995 Chevrolet GMT-400 northbound on Highway 71 and it collided head-on with the Ranger, according to the report.

The CentraCare Willmar Ambulance, Raymond Ambulance, Willmar Fire Department, Kandiyohi County Sheriff's Office and Kandiyohi County Rescue Squad assisted at the scene.

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