The Winona community is heartbroken following the sudden death of 88-year-old Ruth Ann Brockert Marshall, a beloved and lifelong resident, who was involved in a fatal crash with a semi-truck on Thursday afternoon. The collision, which occurred on October 23, 2025, serves as a devastating reminder of the fragile nature of life on our roadways and has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew her.
The Minnesota State Patrol’s report details that the tragic incident unfolded around 2:12 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 43 and Brookview Drive. Marshall was driving a 2016 Toyota Prius, traveling eastbound on Brookview Drive, when it was struck by a 2006 Peterbilt semi-truck that was heading north toward Winona on Highway 43. The scene was quickly attended by multiple emergency crews, including the Winona County Sheriff’s Office, Fire Department, and Ambulance service, but sadly, Marshall was pronounced deceased either at the scene or shortly after being transported to Winona Health, according to differing reports.
The semi-truck driver, 40-year-old Jeffery Allen Warner of Tomah, Wisconsin, was thankfully uninjured in the crash. Authorities confirmed that both drivers had been wearing their seat belts. Adding to the mystery of the collision, investigators noted that neither environmental factors nor alcohol appeared to be a contributing factor, with the weather being clear and the road surface dry. For several hours, the major commuter route between Winona and Interstate 90 was completely shut down while first responders worked tirelessly to process the scene and clear the wreckage, causing significant traffic disruption.
Currently, the Minnesota State Patrol is deep into an ongoing investigation to nail down the precise sequence of events that led to the collision at the intersection. Early on, officials indicated that both the semi-truck and Marshall’s passenger vehicle were operating lawfully prior to the crash. The focus is now on meticulously examining physical evidence, gathering any vehicle data, and cross-referencing eyewitness accounts to determine how the two vehicles came into contact. For the time being, no citations or charges have been issued as the full investigation runs its course.
However, the real story here is the profound loss felt by the people of Winona. Ruth Marshall was much more than a crash victim; she was described by friends and neighbors as a warm-hearted, actively engaged woman known for her kindness, generosity, and strong community spirit. She dedicated a significant portion of her life to local causes, and the flood of online tributes is a powerful testament to the impact she had on countless lives. The community is collectively mourning a woman who truly embodied neighborly compassion.
While the Winona community rallies around Marshall’s family, who are preparing for a private service, this event serves as a somber call to action for all drivers. Authorities, especially the Minnesota State Patrol, are using this tragic moment to re-emphasize the crucial need for vigilance and patience behind the wheel, particularly at busy intersections where right-of-way can become confusing and the risks are inherently higher.
Thursday’s fatal crash near Brookview Drive is a heartbreaking punctuation mark in the daily flow of life, reminding everyone in the area just how quickly an ordinary afternoon can turn into a life-altering disaster. As the investigation continues, the memory of Ruth Marshall will undoubtedly serve as a lasting inspiration for the community she loved, and a poignant caution for all who share the road.
