Barry Township, MN — July 2, 2025 _ The community of Hinckley and surrounding Pine County is reeling after a tragic crash claimed the life of a 63-year-old local man on Wednesday evening, July 2, 2025. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the collision occurred at approximately 6:00 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 48 and Wildlife Road in Barry Township.
The fatal crash involved two vehicles: a 2021 Ford F-150, driven by Kameron Ellis, a resident of Hinckley, and a 1999 Ford F-150, operated by a 40-year-old Cambridge man. The state patrol report indicates that the 1999 pickup was traveling southbound on Wildlife Road when it failed to stop at the stop sign at the Highway 48 intersection. As a result, it collided with Ellis’s eastbound vehicle, forcing both trucks into the southeast ditch.
Tragically, Kameron Ellis sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene. Ellis, known in Hinckley as a kind-hearted neighbor and hardworking community member, leaves behind grieving family, friends, and neighbors. News of his sudden passing has sent shockwaves throughout the area.
The driver of the 1999 Ford and two passengers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and received medical attention at a nearby facility. A third passenger, a male whose identity has not yet been released, suffered life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) for emergency care. His condition remains critical.
The Pine County Sheriff’s Office responded alongside state troopers and emergency medical personnel, working swiftly to secure the scene, provide care, and begin the investigation. Traffic was temporarily rerouted while responders cleared the area and conducted preliminary assessments.
As investigations continue, no further details have been released regarding possible charges or contributing factors such as speed or impairment. The incident remains under active review by the Minnesota State Patrol.
The loss of Kameron Ellis is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety, especially at rural intersections where visibility and caution are critical. Friends and family describe Kameron as a man who lived simply, loved deeply, and gave generously of himself to his community. His absence will be profoundly felt.
A memorial service for Kameron Ellis is expected to be announced in the coming days, giving the community an opportunity to come together to honor his life and legacy.
Please keep the Ellis family and all those affected by this heartbreaking accident in your thoughts during this difficult time.