Rope Rescue Used to Free Two After Overnight Crash in New Brighton
Published: February 20th, 2026
Photo credit: New Brighton PD
NEW BRIGHTON MN: Two people were rescued early Wednesday morning after a crash left them trapped inside a vehicle in New Brighton.
According to the New Brighton Department of Public Safety, crews were dispatched at 1:27 a.m. on February 19 to the 300 block of 2nd Street NW for a report of a vehicle crash with occupants trapped.
When first responders arrived, they found the vehicle upright but unstable, resting on a tree limb. Authorities say neither passenger was wearing a seatbelt and both had been thrown under the dashboard, leaving them trapped inside.
Crews removed portions of the vehicle to gain access and used a tow truck to help stabilize it. One patient, who was able to move on their own, was removed through the top of the vehicle.
A second patient remained pinned beneath the dashboard. Firefighters re-entered the vehicle from both the top and lower sections and were eventually able to free the individual.
Due to steep terrain and icy, snowy conditions at the scene, crews used a low-angle rope rescue system to bring the second patient up the hill before transferring care to Allina Health Emergency Medical Services.
Officials are reminding drivers to wear their seatbelts and reduce speed during snowy and icy road conditions.
