Minnesota woman injured after car strikes turkey on i-35

A 47-year-old woman sustained injuries Tuesday evening after her BMW X5 collided with a wild turkey on southbound Interstate 35 near Forest Township, Minnesota.

Unexpected encounter on the highway

The incident, reported shortly before 7:00 PM by the Minnesota State Patrol, involved a direct impact that shattered the vehicle’s windshield. Preliminary reports indicate the driver was traveling on I-35 when the animal unexpectedly entered the roadway.

“It was a fairly significant collision,” stated a spokesperson for the patrol. “Thankfully, the woman's injuries appear to be non-life-threatening, and she is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital. We’re investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including potential factors contributing to the turkey’s presence on the interstate.”

Precarious roadways and wildlife concerns

While such encounters are rare, they highlight the ongoing challenge of managing wildlife crossings within populated areas. The stretch of I-35 where the accident occurred is known to have a significant turkey population, particularly during migration season. Authorities are reviewing strategies to mitigate these risks, though a complete solution remains elusive. The driver’s identity has not yet been released.

The investigation is ongoing, but as of this report, the woman is expected to make a full recovery. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and exercise caution, particularly during dawn and dusk hours, when wildlife activity is often heightened. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of traveling through rural Minnesota.