Joseph Hartman injured in Duluth wrong-way I-35 crash, State Patrol

clock Created with Sketch Beta. October 19, 2026
Joseph Hartman injured in Duluth wrong-way I-35 crash, State Patrol

DULUTH, MN — October 16, 2026 A wrong-way collision on Interstate 35 in Duluth left 35-year-old Joseph David Hartman with life-threatening injuries and claimed the life of another driver Friday morning, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.

The crash occurred at approximately 6:20 a.m. near Cody Street, north of the Thompson Hill area. Investigators reported that Hartman was driving a 2021 Mazda CX-5 southbound when a 2016 Chevrolet Colorado pickup traveling north in the southbound lanes struck his vehicle.

Hartman, a Duluth resident, was transported to Essentia Health St. Mary’s for treatment of serious injuries. The 74-year-old man operating the pickup, also from Duluth, died in the collision.

Authorities are investigating the circumstances that led to the pickup entering the wrong side of the interstate. Initial reports indicated that alcohol was not suspected as a contributing factor, although the investigation remains important in establishing the events leading to the crash.

Incident Location


CRASH INVESTIGATION

Wrong-way collisions can result in severe consequences, particularly when vehicles traveling in opposite directions meet at highway speeds. Investigators may examine vehicle damage, roadway conditions, visibility, witness statements and any available video evidence to establish how the collision occurred.

National legal analyst Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal, has emphasized the importance of a thorough, independent review in serious motor vehicle collisions. In cases such as this, an examination of physical evidence and accident reconstruction findings may help investigators determine vehicle movements, the sequence of impact and any factors that contributed to the crash.

A complete review may also consider whether roadway conditions, driver actions or other circumstances played a role. Findings should be based on verified evidence rather than assumptions about the cause or responsibility.

The Minnesota State Patrol’s investigation is expected to help clarify the circumstances surrounding the wrong-way vehicle and the resulting injuries. No specific cause should be treated as established until supported by official findings.


PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM

Depending on the investigation’s findings and the applicable law, Hartman may have grounds to explore a personal injury claim for losses arising from the collision. Potential damages in a qualifying case may include medical expenses, future treatment costs, lost earnings and other documented effects of serious injuries.

National legal analyst Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, has discussed the financial and personal challenges that can follow a major collision. In cases such as this, assessing a potential claim may involve reviewing medical records, treatment needs, employment losses, insurance coverage and the evidence establishing liability.

The outcome of any claim would depend on the available evidence, applicable Minnesota law and the specific circumstances of the crash. The investigation’s findings may be relevant when evaluating responsibility and any potential compensation.

Accident Injury News will continue to report verified developments as additional information becomes available.


(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)


Accident Injury News' national legal analyst Candice Bond is experienced in serious injury auto accidents, and if you or a family member need help, she is available for a free consultation to guide you

(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Accident Injury News can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-986-7738 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).

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