15-04-2025
Deputy in critical condition: Parked squad with lights activated struck on interstate
A Nobles County Sheriff's deputy is in critical condition after his stopped squad vehicle was struck on Interstate 90 on Sunday.
The Minnesota State Patrol says the crash happened just after 4:30 p.m. on I-90 near milepost 34 in Dewald Township. That's where Deputy Arnold Waldner was stopped and in his Nobles County Dodge Durango squad when it was struck by a Chevy Equinox driven by a 63-year-old Sioux Falls woman.
According to the crash report, Waldner's patrol vehicle "was parked with lights activated" while assisting at the scene of a separate crash investigation.
The 30-year-old deputy from Worthington was taken to Sanford Hospital in Worthington with life-threatening injuries. The crash report states Waldner was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash.
"Please continue to hold Deputy Waldner in your thoughts and prayers," Nobles County Sheriff Ryan Kruger said, noting that Waldner has been with the sheriff's office for two years.
Waldner was in critical condition as of Monday afternoon.
A fund account has been established at 1st State Bank Southwest in Worthington for anyone interested in contributing to Waldner's medical costs. Those interested can call 507-376-9747 or visit the bank in person.
The Sioux Falls driver was taken to the Sanford Luverne Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries.
Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement's latest version of events, and may be subject to change.
