PIERCE COUNTY Accident Reports

Deputies responded to a two-vehicle crash at 7:53 p.m. July 23 on Highway 35 east of 1200th Street in the town of Oak Grove between a 2008 Ford Escape, driven by Jessica Lynn Hawkins, 32, St. Paul, and a 2012 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Thomas Herman Carlson, 61, Cottage Grove, Minn. Both vehicles were heading southbound on Highway 35. A third vehicle in front of them stopped (due to oncoming traffic) to make a left-hand turn into a private driveway. Carlson, who was directly behind the third vehicle, also stopped. Hawkins, who was behind Carlson, struck the rear of his vehicle. Both drivers wore seat belts; Hawkins reported possible injuries, but was not transported. Carlson reported no injuries. Hawkins’ vehicle was towed due to disabling damage. Carlson’s truck had minor damage. Hawkins was cited for operate without valid license.

At 4:22 a.m. Monday, July 26, deputies responded to a one-vehicle crash on Highway 65 near 610thAvenue in the town of Ellsworth. Benjamin Kelln, 56, Ellsworth, was heading southbound on Highway 65 when he left the roadway, traveled through the west ditch and struck a field driveway before stopping at the edge of a corn field. Ellsworth Area Ambulance Service transported Kelln to Regions Hospital in St. Paul with undisclosed injuries. Ellsworth fire Department also assisted Pierce County Sheriff’s Office at the scene.