14-year-old killed, two critically injured in crash near Elko New Market

A 14-year-old pickup truck passenger was killed and two drivers were critically injured in a crash near Elko New Market early Tuesday evening, according to authorities.

The crash happened on 30th Street West around 7:40 p.m. in Rice County’s Webster Township, approximately three-and-a-half miles southwest of Elko New Market.

According to the Rice County Sheriff’s Office, investigators believe a 20-year-old Lakeville man was driving westbound on 30th Street West in a Ford F-150 when he crossed the centerline just east of Fairbanks Avenue and collided with an oncoming GMC Sierra pickup truck, driven by a 16-year-old Lakeville boy.

Fourteen-year-old Cannon Falls resident Brantly R. McCarty, a passenger in the Ford F-150, died at the scene. Both drivers were transported to metro-area hospitals with critical injuries.

“Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic incident,” Rice County Sheriff Jesse Thomas said in a statement.

According to the sheriff’s office, impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash.

The crash remains under investigation.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement’s latest version of events, and may be subject to change.