UPDATED: One Teen Killed, Another Seriously Injured in a Crash Involving a Semi-Truck in Southern Dakota County
Published: January 19, 2026 | Last Updated: January 23, 2026 at 3:35 pm.
UPDATE: A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the family of Berlyn Berghuis, who tragically died at the age of 16 following the crash on January 19. In the fundraiser description, Berlyn is remembered as a “pure spirit” who shone brightly on everyone who knew her and shared a close, loving bond with her parents, Mae and Brent. Organizers described the family as having lost an irreplaceable pillar, noting the profound and immeasurable grief being felt by Berlyn’s parents, family, and friends.
The fundraiser is intended to help cover unexpected expenses following Berlyn’s sudden death, including medical and funeral costs, and to offer tangible support during an incredibly difficult time. Those who wish to contribute or learn more can visit the GoFundMe page at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-berlyn-berghuis-family. Organizers say any level of support is deeply appreciated as the family works to honor and carry forward Berlyn’s memory.
GREENVALE TOWNSHIP, MINNESOTA – Authorities have released new details following a fatal two-vehicle crash involving a semi-truck and a passenger vehicle on Monday afternoon in Greenvale Township.
According to the Dakota County Sheriff's Office, deputies were dispatched at approximately 3:23 p.m. on Monday, January 19, to a serious injury crash at the intersection of 320th Street and Foliage Avenue.
Preliminary information indicates a semi-truck traveling westbound on 320th Street collided with a 2012 Lexus CT that was attempting to turn east onto 320th Street from Foliage Avenue. Deputies arrived to find both occupants of the Lexus unresponsive and immediately began lifesaving measures. The driver of the Lexus, Berlyn Berghuis, a 16-year-old from Northfield, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The passenger, Anabelle Martinez, also 16, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to HCMC hospital, where she remains under medical care. Authorities confirmed the driver of the semi-truck was not injured in the crash.
The collision occurred in Greenvale Township, located in far southern Dakota County. The roadway was closed for several hours following the crash to allow for crash reconstruction and investigation.
The Dakota County Sheriff’s Office is serving as the lead investigative agency and is being assisted by the Minnesota State Patrol. Officials stated the crash remains under active investigation, and no additional details will be released at this time.
In a statement, the sheriff’s office expressed appreciation to first responders and witnesses who assisted at the scene and extended its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones affected by the tragic loss.
Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
Location of serious crash in southern Dakota County, Minnesota.
Written by: Will Wight
