An agent of Washington Co. off-duty driver caused a head-on crash that involved alcohol, officials say

AFTON, Minn. – An off-duty deputy with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office caused a crash involving alcohol, according to authorities.

The Minnesota State Patrol says the crash happened around 10:39 a.m. Sunday in Afton on Highway 95 near Scenic Lane.

There, a 58-year-old Hastings man driving a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek was traveling northbound on the highway when he crossed the center line and collided head-on with a 2022 Ford Expedition, the patrol said.

The driver and passenger in the Ford, a 38-year-old man from Lake Elmo and a 36-year-old woman from Woodbury, respectively, suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the driver of the Subaru is one of their deputies and that he was off duty at the time. He also suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The State Patrol says alcohol was involved but has not provided further details.

“We are aware of the motor vehicle injury accident involving an off-duty Washington County deputy,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement shared with WCCO. “The Minnesota State Patrol is currently investigating the incident and we will take all appropriate actions in accordance with our policies and procedures pending the outcome of the investigation.”

All three people involved were taken to the Regional Hospital for treatment. They were all wearing seat belts.