State Patrol seeks driver of semi that struck, seriously injured Becker County pedestrian

Woman, 42, injured walking along northern Minnesota highway.

November 14, 2021 at 10:51PM
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The Minnesota State Patrol is searching for the driver of a semi that struck and seriously injured a pedestrian in Becker County. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

The Minnesota State Patrol is searching for the driver of a semitrailer truck that struck a pedestrian in northern Minnesota on Thursday, leaving her with life-threatening injuries.

The semi hit Heather Anne Pihlaja, 42, of Frazee, Minn., in "snow-ice" road conditions at 7:15 p.m. Thursday on Hwy. 34 near 385th Avenue in Height of Land Township in Becker County, according to the State Patrol.

Investigators identified the truck as a white VNL 64 Volvo pulling a flatbed trailer and carrying a load covered with a tarp.

The State Patrol said in a social media post that the truck's right front headlight is out and that it has noticeable damage to the front right bumper and headlight area.

Alcohol was involved, according to the State Patrol, but because of its open investigation, spokesman Lt. Gordon Shank said he could not say the extent to which it was involved.

Pihlaja is being treated for her injuries at an area hospital.

Christina Saint Louis • 612-673-4668

573513685
The Minnesota State Patrol is searching for the driver of a semi that struck and seriously injured a pedestrian in Becker County. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
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Christina Saint Louis

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Christina Saint Louis is the Minneapolis public safety reporter for the Star Tribune.

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