Jean Elizabeth Hodgman – Minnesota authorities are investigating a tragic two-vehicle crash that claimed the lives of an Echo woman and a teenage boy, while another driver from Montevideo was injured. The collision occurred Friday morning near Wood Lake and has left both communities mourning as officials continue to piece together what happened.
According to information released by the Minnesota State Patrol, the incident took place shortly after 8 a.m. on a section of State Highway 274. At the time, winter weather had created hazardous driving conditions, and the roadway was reportedly covered in snow and patches of ice. Two vehicles were traveling in opposite directions along the same stretch of highway when the crash occurred.
A 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo was moving northbound, while a newer model SUV was heading southbound. Investigators believe the Monte Carlo began to slide because of the slick road surface, causing the driver to lose control. The vehicle then crossed into the path of the oncoming SUV near the intersection of Highway 274 and 190th Avenue. The resulting impact was severe and immediately drew the attention of emergency responders in the area.
The driver of the Monte Carlo has been identified as 41-year-old Jean Elizabeth Hodgman of Echo. Her passenger, a 14-year-old boy who was also from Echo, was traveling with her at the time of the crash. Both sustained critical injuries and could not be saved despite the efforts of first responders. Their deaths have deeply affected friends, relatives, and the larger Echo community, where both were known and cared about.
The driver of the second vehicle, a 44-year-old woman from Montevideo, was injured in the crash as well. Fortunately, her injuries were described as non-life-threatening. She was transported to a local medical facility for evaluation and treatment. Authorities have not released additional personal details beyond her age and hometown in order to respect privacy and ensure online safety.
State Patrol officials noted that the two individuals who died were not wearing seat belts. While the exact role this played in the outcome of the crash remains under review, authorities continue to emphasize the importance of seat belt use, particularly during winter months when icy roads greatly increase the risk of losing control. Safety officials often remind drivers that seat belts are one of the most effective ways to reduce the severity of injuries during collisions.
A number of agencies responded to the crash and assisted at the scene. The Yellow Medicine County Sheriff’s Office, local fire and rescue crews from Wood Lake, and multiple ambulance teams worked together to provide medical care, manage the accident site, and support the investigation. Their coordinated efforts helped ensure the injured driver received timely treatment and that the scene was secured safely.
The Minnesota State Patrol is continuing to review all available information, including road conditions, vehicle positions, and witness accounts. Traffic reconstruction specialists will analyze the evidence to gain a clear understanding of the events leading up to the collision. These findings will help authorities provide accurate information to the families involved and the wider community.
In the meantime, residents in Echo, Montevideo, and surrounding towns are expressing sympathy and support for the families affected by this heartbreaking incident. Winter driving in Minnesota often presents sudden hazards, and officials encourage all motorists to travel with extra caution, reduce speed during poor weather, and ensure that safety restraints are always used.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to release additional updates through official public channels.
