Northstar Township, Minnesota – A snowmobile crash near Highway 44 injured a passenger and closed the roadway during an air medical response Saturday afternoon.
According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 4:17 p.m. to a reported snowmobile crash on a state snowmobile trail near Highway 44 in Northstar Township.
Preliminary information indicates the snowmobile crashed while negotiating a sharp corner. The passenger, a 37-year-old woman from the Duluth area, sustained serious injuries. Authorities said the driver did not require medical assistance.
Due to the severity of the passenger’s injuries and the distance from the trail to Highway 44, Life Link III Air Medical was staged along the highway. The injured woman was transported by helicopter to a Duluth-area hospital for treatment.
Highway 44 was closed for more than an hour to allow emergency crews to safely manage the air medical landing and transport. Motorists experienced delays during the closure.
The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office thanked drivers for their patience while emergency responders worked at the scene.
Assisting agencies included Northstar and Pequaywan Township emergency medical services, Mayo Ambulance, and the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Rescue Squad.
The crash remains under review. No additional details were released regarding speed, trail conditions, or contributing factors.
Snowmobile traffic increases across northern Minnesota during winter weekends and late afternoons, particularly near trail crossings and sharp turns. Authorities continue to urge riders to reduce speed, remain alert on corners, and wear proper safety equipment.
This incident may be of particular relevance to commuters and outdoor recreation users who rely on Highway 44 or nearby trail systems during peak winter travel hours.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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