Bradley Hayes and Kimberly Rife Tragically Lose Their Lives in Devastating Head-On Collision on Highway 71 in Park Rapids, MN
The Park Rapids community is mourning the sudden loss of Bradley Hayes, 45, and Kimberly Rife, 39, who died Sunday night in a catastrophic head-on crash along Highway 71.
Authorities reported that the collision occurred around 8:20 p.m. near Albert Avenue South, when Hayes’ northbound Ford F-150 crossed the center line and struck Rife’s southbound KIA Telluride. Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash also involved two children, who sustained injuries in the collision. A 13-year-old passenger in Rife’s vehicle suffered life-threatening injuries, while a five-year-old child in Hayes’ truck received non-life-threatening injuries. Both children were transported to Sanford Hospital in Fargo for medical care.
Neighbors describe Bradley Hayes and Kimberly Rife as caring and devoted members of the community, whose sudden deaths have left a lasting impact. Social media posts have expressed shock and sympathy, with one resident noting, “Our hearts are with the families; this town feels the loss deeply.”
The tragic event has brought the small-town community together in grief and support, emphasizing the resilience and unity of Park Rapids as families and friends focus on the recovery of the surviving children. Memorial and funeral service details will be announced by the family.
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