RANDOLPH, Minn. — Authorities have confirmed that the use of alcohol by a southeast Minnesota driver was linked to a fatal crash on Highway 56 in Dakota County on Saturday morning, according to the Minnesota State Patrol (MSP).
The collision occurred around 11 a.m., just south of the 292nd Street East intersection, when a 2016 Dodge Ram, driven by 28-year-old Seth John Nechville of Kenyon, crossed into the southbound lanes and collided head-on with a passenger vehicle. Emergency responders were dispatched immediately following reports of the crash.
The impact was devastating. First responders arrived to find significant damage to both vehicles and occupants in critical condition. Despite lifesaving measures, authorities confirmed that at least one person was pronounced dead at the scene. Several others sustained serious injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Names of the victims have not been released pending family notification.
MSP investigators indicated that Nechville’s impaired condition played a central role in the crash. Alcohol testing at the scene revealed that he was under the influence at the time of the collision. “This tragic crash underscores the dangers of driving under the influence,” MSP officials said in a statement. “Even a single lapse in judgment can result in irreversible consequences.”
The north- and southbound lanes of Highway 56 were closed for several hours while MSP’s Fatal Crash Unit conducted a thorough investigation. Troopers collected evidence, documented skid marks, and reviewed the scene to reconstruct the events leading up to the collision. Traffic in the area was rerouted, causing significant delays for morning commuters.
Community members who witnessed the aftermath described a chaotic scene, with emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and law enforcement personnel attending to the injured. “It was shocking to see,” said one local resident. “The entire area was blocked off, and you could tell it was really serious.”
Authorities also emphasized that Nechville is facing multiple potential charges, including driving under the influence causing death and serious bodily injury. Formal charges and court proceedings are expected in the coming days as the investigation continues.
This fatal crash has sparked concern among residents in Randolph and surrounding communities. Local safety advocates reiterated the importance of responsible driving and the severe consequences of impaired driving. “Every year, Minnesota sees tragedies that could have been prevented if drivers made safe choices,” said a spokesperson for a regional road safety coalition.
The Minnesota State Patrol has urged anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area to contact their office to assist with the investigation. Officials also reminded the public to report any suspicious or unsafe driving behaviors to prevent similar tragedies.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and offers support to the families affected by this devastating incident. Counselling services and resources have been made available to help those coping with the trauma and grief resulting from the crash.
