Martin Nickolas Hanson and Four Others Tragic Crash Springfield, MN Death, Obituary: Tragic Loss
A horrific head-on collision on Highway 71 in Cottonwood County, Minnesota, has claimed the lives of five individuals, leaving families shattered and an entire community in mourning. On Friday afternoon, March 20, 2026, Martin Nickolas Hanson, 67, Kathleen Johnson, 73, Richard Johnson, 73, Kelly Hargus, 49, and Lindsey Rossow, 47, were killed in one of the deadliest crashes in recent Minnesota history. Their untimely deaths have left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew them.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash occurred at 4:41 p.m., when an SUV traveling northbound collided head-on with a southbound transit van. The van was carrying 13 people, and the tragic incident led to catastrophic consequences. Martin Hanson, the driver of the SUV from Springfield, was pronounced dead at the scene. Four victims inside the transit van – Kathleen Johnson, Richard Johnson, Kelly Hargus, and Lindsey Rossow – also perished in the crash. They were cherished members of a close-knit family, known for their deep bond and unwavering love for one another.
Family member Serena McCartney shared the profound loss, describing the victims as a family that had always been together. Richard’s humor, Kathleen’s comforting hugs, and the admiration held for Kelly and Lindsey by their cousins were part of the lasting memories now deeply etched in the hearts of those who loved them.
Two of Kathleen and Richard’s daughters survived the crash, although they are left grappling with the severe emotional and physical aftermath. Several others in the transit van sustained serious injuries, with at least two in critical condition. Eyewitness Maxwell Miller recalled the horror of the crash, which he described as one of the worst accidents he had ever seen. His quick actions, along with others, helped pull survivors from the wreckage before first responders arrived.
In the face of overwhelming grief, Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Jackson, Minnesota, opened its doors for a vigil to offer support, prayer, and remembrance for the victims and their families.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the full circumstances behind the tragic crash. The loss of Martin, Kathleen, Richard, Kelly, and Lindsey has left a community and state reeling. The victims’ lives, love, and memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew them.