Owatonna High School graduate Olivia Flores has sadly passed away. She died on Sunday 19th May 2024 surrounded by her beloved family in a deadly car accident. On Saturday, the Rochester Police Department (RPD) reported that several individuals were injured in a multi-vehicle collision near Apache Mall. The incident, which involved three vehicles, occurred around 5:45 p.m. at the intersection of Memorial Parkway SW and 12th St. SW, close to the Scheel’s-side entrance of the mall.
According to preliminary reports from RPD, a Minnesota State Patrol squad car was among the vehicles involved in the crash. The collision resulted in all seven occupants from the three vehicles being transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment. Emergency services quickly responded to the scene, and the RPD is currently assisting with the ongoing investigation. Due to the severity of the crash and the investigation process, the intersection at Memorial Parkway SW and 12th St. SW is expected to remain closed for several hours.
Authorities have not yet provided details on the condition of those injured or the possible causes of the accident. The involvement of a State Patrol vehicle has added a layer of complexity to the investigation, with both state and local agencies working together to determine the sequence of events leading up to the crash.
The RPD has urged the public to avoid the area and seek alternative routes to minimize traffic disruptions. The closure of this key intersection is likely to impact local traffic flow, especially considering its proximity to the busy Apache Mall. As the investigation continues, more information is expected to be released. The RPD is asking anyone with information about the incident or who may have witnessed the crash to come forward and assist with the investigation.
The community’s thoughts are with those injured in the accident, and authorities are working diligently to ensure a thorough investigation and timely reopening of the intersection.
