Wrong-way driver charged in central Minnesota crash that critically injured high school senior, as authorities formally accuse a 71-year-old Sauk Rapids man of causing a devastating multi-vehicle collision that left three teenagers injured—one of them fighting for his life. The crash, which occurred on April 9 along Highway 10 in Sherburne County, has sparked renewed calls for improved highway safety and accountability for reckless driving.
According to the criminal complaint, the suspect was driving eastbound in the westbound lanes of Highway 10 for several miles before colliding with another vehicle while attempting a right turn onto 70th Avenue. The impact triggered a chain reaction that escalated when a Minnesota State Trooper, responding to reports of the wrong-way driver, struck the suspect’s vehicle, unaware of the initial crash. That collision sent the suspect’s car into two teenagers who had exited their vehicle to inspect damage from the first impact.
Among the injured was 17-year-old Blayke Mostad, who suffered life-threatening injuries to his brain and spinal cord. His younger brother, 15-year-old Braxton Mostad, and their 19-year-old friend were also hurt, along with the suspect and the responding trooper. The intersection where the crash occurred was described as unlit and uncontrolled, contributing to the trooper’s inability to see the wreckage before impact.
A blood sample taken from the suspect revealed the presence of Trazodone, a prescription medication known to cause dizziness, drowsiness, and blurred vision. Investigators say the suspect admitted he realized he was driving the wrong way just moments before the initial crash. He now faces four counts each of criminal vehicular operation resulting in great bodily harm and criminal vehicular operation resulting in bodily harm.
The Mostad family has been sharing updates on Blayke’s condition through a CaringBridge page, revealing that he has transitioned from the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit to inpatient rehabilitation. His recovery journey has included multiple surgeries and intensive therapy, with family members describing the process as “hour by hour.”
Braxton, who sustained a torn ACL and a serious eye injury, has since been discharged but will require future surgeries. The family’s GoFundMe campaign has raised thousands to support medical expenses, travel costs, and long-term care.
The incident has prompted community-wide reflection on highway safety, especially in rural areas where lighting and signage are limited. Local officials are reviewing the design of the intersection and considering additional measures to prevent similar tragedies.
Meanwhile, the Minnesota State Patrol has placed the involved trooper on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. A review of squad car footage confirmed that the vehicles from the initial crash were not visible to the trooper before the second collision.
As the legal process unfolds, the Mostad family continues to advocate for safer roads and greater awareness of the dangers posed by impaired or confused drivers. Their story has resonated across Minnesota, with thousands following Blayke’s progress and offering support.
The crash serves as a sobering reminder of how a single moment of error can alter lives forever. For the Mostads, the road to recovery is long, but their resilience and community support remain unwavering.
