A tragic crash southwest of the Twin Cities claimed the life of a woman late Sunday night, and authorities believe speeding and alcohol may have played a role. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash happened at about 11:40 p.m. on southbound Highway 169 in Jackson Township, an area where late-night traffic is usually light but still active with drivers heading between nearby communities.
Investigators say the crash involved two vehicles: a GMC Acadia and a Chevrolet Cobalt. The GMC was reportedly traveling at a high speed when it struck the back of the Chevrolet. The impact forced the smaller Chevy off the road and into a ditch, where it rolled. Passing drivers alerted emergency responders, who arrived quickly at the scene. The driver of the Chevrolet, 46-year-old Kala Henry of Chaska, was rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the medical team’s efforts, she did not survive her injuries.
The driver of the GMC, a 20-year-old man from Shakopee, was also taken to the hospital. Authorities say he suffered injuries but is expected to recover. According to the State Patrol, he was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Investigators also noted signs that alcohol may have been involved, though full toxicology reports and formal charges are still pending. Records show that the young driver is currently being held at the Scott County Jail as the case continues.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, as happens with all fatal roadway incidents in Minnesota. The State Patrol typically reviews evidence such as vehicle damage, road conditions, witness statements, and any available camera footage. When alcohol is suspected, toxicology tests are standard. In cases involving speeding, investigators may also examine skid marks, debris, and digital data from the vehicles to understand how fast each car was traveling before the collision.
Crashes like this often leave a deep mark on the community, especially when they result in the sudden loss of a life. Residents in areas along Highway 169 are familiar with the risks of that stretch of road, which sees a mix of local commuters, long-distance drivers, and commercial traffic. While many people drive responsibly, even a single impaired or speeding driver can create a life-threatening situation for everyone around them.
Authorities frequently remind the public about the dangers of driving under the influence and the importance of wearing seat belts. In Minnesota, alcohol-related crashes kill dozens of people every year and injure many more. State officials have continued to invest in awareness campaigns and enforcement efforts, especially during late-night and weekend hours when impaired driving tends to increase.
The loss of Kala Henry is another painful reminder of how quickly a routine trip can turn tragic. Even with emergency responders and medical staff acting fast, some crashes leave little chance for survival due to the force of impact. Friends, family, and community members will now face the difficult process of grieving a loved one taken too soon.
As the legal process moves forward, the State Patrol will release additional information when it becomes available. For now, officials encourage drivers to slow down, stay alert, and make sober driving a priority. Simple decisions—like choosing not to speed, wearing a seat belt, and avoiding alcohol before getting behind the wheel—can prevent tragedies and save lives.
