A tragic crash in Arden Hills on Tuesday evening claimed the life of a young motorist and left her two passengers injured.
The accident happened around 6:25 p.m. on Interstate 694 near the Highway 10 interchange, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
Authorities identified the driver as Fatuma Yussuf Sharif-Isaack, 21, from Brooklyn Park. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The State Patrol reported that she was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
Two women traveling with her were injured but are expected to recover. They were identified as Ayan Ali Hassan, 20, of Fridley, and Fatima Mursal Jaamac, 21, also of Brooklyn Park. Both were taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Sequence of Events
According to investigators, Sharif-Isaack was driving westbound on I-694 during the evening commute when her vehicle crossed from the right lane to the left shoulder. She then struck a guardrail. The impact pushed her vehicle back into traffic, where it collided with an SUV.
The driver of the SUV, identified as Lynie Rose Lee, 41, of Maplewood, was not injured.
Road Conditions and Investigation
At the time of the crash, road conditions were reported to be clear and dry. There is no immediate indication that weather played a role in the accident. The State Patrol has not yet released information on whether speed, distraction, or other factors may have contributed.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. It is not yet known why the vehicle suddenly moved across lanes and into the shoulder.
Safety Reminders
The State Patrol emphasized the importance of wearing seat belts, noting that it remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injury or death in a crash. In Minnesota, failing to buckle up is a primary offense, meaning drivers can be stopped and ticketed solely for not wearing a seat belt.
This incident adds to a growing concern over road fatalities in the state. Officials have repeatedly urged motorists to drive attentively, obey speed limits, and avoid distractions while behind the wheel.
Community Impact
The crash occurred during a busy time on the highway, as many commuters were making their way home. Traffic was temporarily slowed in the area as emergency crews responded and cleared the scene.
Friends and family of the victims are grieving the loss of Sharif-Isaack while offering prayers for the recovery of Hassan and Jaamac.
The Minnesota State Patrol is asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that could help in the investigation to come forward.
