Students struck by vehicle expected to make full recovery

The two students who were struck by a car on Tuesday are expected to make a full recovery, according to a new statement by the Forest Lake Area School District. 15-year-olds Sam Farinella and Jase Blanchard, two track athletes, were airlifted to Regions Hospital in St. Paul after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Highway 61 at 202nd St N at about 3:30 p.m; Farinella with life-threatening injuries. District personnell said they are "relieved" the two are both expected to make a full recovery.

Forest Lake Area School District superintendent Steve Massey released the following statement on Tuesday in response:

"We were saddened to learn this afternoon that two of our high school student track athletes were struck by a vehicle as they were crossing Highway 61. ...Our hearts are with these students and their families."

The driver was identified by the state patrol as 84-year-old Robert Creager of Lindstrom.

The Minnesota State Patrol is investigating the crash. The Times will update as more information becomes available.