Early hours of Saturday, August 30, 2025, a devastating head-on collision on Highway 19 near Gaylord, Minnesota, claimed the life of 17-year-old Mya Jean Maus from Henderson. The vibrant teenager, known for her sass, kindness, and infectious humor, was driving her 2003 Pontiac Bonneville eastbound when it collided with a westbound 2000 Chevy K30 just after 1 a.m. in Dryden Township, Sibley County. The Minnesota State Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the tragic crash, leaving a grieving community searching for answers and ways to honor a life cut short.
Mya, a beloved aide at Bayside Manor, an assisted living facility in Gaylord, touched countless lives with her warmth and dedication. Colleagues described her as “sassy, kind, funny, and absolutely perfect in all the ways that mattered,” a testament to the light she brought to those around her. Her untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of family, friends, and the tight-knit Henderson community.
The crash also left three others injured, including the 17-year-old driver of the Chevy K30 and two passengers, Andrew Cohrs, 50, of Glencoe, and Mitchel Frauendienst, 51, of Winthrop. All three were transported to Hennepin County Medical Center, with the two adult passengers suffering life-threatening injuries. The Minnesota State Patrol noted that none of the occupants in the pickup truck were wearing seatbelts, a detail that underscores the tragedy’s preventable nature. Mya, the sole occupant of her vehicle, was wearing her seatbelt but was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, the Henderson community has rallied to support Mya’s family. A Meal Train has been organized to provide meals in the coming weeks, easing the burden of daily responsibilities as they navigate their grief. A fundraiser, aiming to raise $15,000 to cover funeral costs and lost wages, had already garnered nearly $11,000 by midday Sunday, August 31, 2025. The outpouring of support reflects the profound impact Mya had on those around her. “Your kindness—whether through meals, donations, or simply keeping them in your thoughts and prayers—will enable them to concentrate on being together, mourning, and healing,” the Meal Train page reads.
Tributes have flooded social media, with friends, coworkers, and community members sharing memories of Mya’s radiant spirit. Her legacy as a compassionate caregiver and a joyful presence endures, even as the investigation into the crash continues. The Minnesota State Patrol has yet to determine which vehicle veered into the oncoming lane, but the focus for now remains on supporting a family and community in mourning.
Mya Jean Maus’ life was brief but brilliant, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her. As Henderson comes together to honor her memory, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the power of community in times of sorrow.
