A serious crash involving several vehicles disrupted traffic and drew a heavy emergency response in south Moorhead on Tuesday morning. Authorities confirmed that at least one person was injured, though the full extent of their injuries has not yet been made public.
The accident happened around 8 a.m. in the 1400 block of 20th Street South, a busy roadway that connects several residential areas with main routes into the city. Morning traffic was building at the time, with many people heading to work, school, or running daily errands.
According to one of the drivers, the chain of events began when an SUV traveling northbound suddenly braked. The driver of a pickup truck behind the SUV said he had no time to stop and crashed directly into the back of it. The force of that collision pushed the SUV into the vehicle in front of it, and two additional vehicles ahead were also struck as the chain reaction continued.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with five vehicles left damaged across the roadway. The pickup truck driver told local reporters that he saw a passenger in one of the vehicles get hurt. Emergency responders confirmed there was at least one injury, but no additional details about the condition of the injured person were released immediately.
Within minutes, Moorhead Police officers arrived on scene to take control of traffic and investigate the cause of the crash. The Moorhead Fire Department also responded, prepared to assist with vehicle stabilization and any necessary extrication, though it does not appear anyone was trapped in their car. Sanford Ambulance crews treated the injured at the scene before transporting them for further medical care.
The vehicles involved sustained heavy damage, with several requiring tow trucks to clear the roadway. Traffic along 20th Street South was temporarily disrupted as crews worked to remove debris and damaged vehicles, but normal flow was restored later in the morning.
For local residents, crashes on this stretch of road are not uncommon. The 1400 block of 20th Street South carries a steady stream of vehicles, especially during morning and evening commutes. Sudden stops, distracted driving, and close following distances are common contributors to chain-reaction collisions like Tuesday’s.
Authorities used the opportunity to remind drivers of the importance of leaving adequate space between vehicles, especially during peak traffic times. A single moment of distraction or a sudden stop can set off a chain reaction that endangers multiple people.
While the full investigation into the cause of Tuesday’s crash is still underway, early accounts suggest that the sudden stop of the SUV created a ripple effect that other drivers couldn’t avoid. Police have not announced whether citations will be issued.
The community is reminded that even minor-seeming traffic decisions can have serious consequences. In this case, five vehicles and several families were affected within seconds. For the person injured, the morning turned from routine to life-changing.
Accidents like this highlight the importance of patient, cautious driving, especially in areas where traffic is heavy. Simple actions—keeping a safe following distance, paying close attention to road conditions, and avoiding distractions—can prevent crashes and protect lives.
As Moorhead residents continue their week, Tuesday morning’s crash serves as a reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility. Authorities encourage anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact Moorhead Police as the investigation continues.
