Eagle Lake, Minnesota (October 24, 2025) — A Minnesota State University, Mankato student was tragically killed Friday morning in a collision with a semi-truck at the intersection of Highways 14 and 60, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
Incident Details: Authorities reported that 20-year-old Valerie Caven, of Farmington, was driving a sedan and attempting to turn north from Highway 14 onto Highway 60 when her vehicle was struck by a westbound semi. The crash occurred shortly after sunrise and resulted in fatal injuries to Caven, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The semi driver, who has not been publicly identified, was not injured. Emergency personnel from the Minnesota State Patrol and the Blue Earth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the crash, closing portions of the roadway during the initial investigation and cleanup efforts.
Investigation: The Minnesota State Patrol is leading the investigation into the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest that Caven was turning across the path of the semi, though investigators have not yet determined whether visibility, traffic control signals, or speed played a role. The intersection of Highways 14 and 60 is known to be a high-traffic corridor with complex merging lanes, which may present challenges during peak travel times.
Investigators will likely analyze vehicle speed data, roadway conditions, and sightlines at the intersection to reconstruct the moments before impact. Weather and lighting conditions may also be reviewed, as morning glare and limited visibility often contribute to serious highway collisions in the region.
Legal Considerations: Fatal crashes involving semi-trucks frequently raise complex legal questions about visibility, right-of-way, and driver reaction times. Even when a collision occurs during a turning maneuver, investigators will consider whether the truck driver was traveling at an appropriate speed for the intersection, maintained proper lookout, and adhered to federal trucking safety regulations.
The legal ramifications of such crashes often involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, and potentially even the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance provider. Establishing liability requires a thorough and detailed investigation, often involving accident reconstruction specialists, expert witnesses, and a comprehensive review of all available evidence.
The Craven family may pursue a wrongful death claim if evidence suggests negligence on the part of the truck driver or the trucking company. Issues such as driver fatigue, improper maintenance, or inadequate training can all affect liability. Additionally, roadway design or traffic signal timing may also be factors if the intersection has a history of collisions.
My heart goes out to Valerie Caven’s family and friends.
Source: KEYC News