Monday, Oct. 1, 5 p.m. (write for Tuesday, Oct. 2, edition of The Forum)
Semi truck overturned. Trailer was damaged; about 300 of the 1,200 turkeys on board escaped from cages. About 200 turkeys were killed in crash
Very heavy rain and wind reduced visibility at time of crash.
I-94 westbound near exit to Highway 59 east of Fergus Falls
investigated by Minnesota State Patrol. Spokesman: Lt. Megan Johnson, first officer on scene. Attributed crash to wind and very low visibility.
Truck driver George Wixo, Willmar. Truck owned by Boganovich Trucking of Willmar. Driver not injured in crash.
Turkeys en route to Pelican Rapids from Willmar area. Bound for West Central Turkeys processing plant
Escaped turkeys fled to both sides of highway. Several struck by oncoming drivers.
Patrol officers and volunteers passing by worked to corral the turkeys. Assistance from Otter Tail County Sheriff's Department deputies.
Most turkeys accounted for by 7:30 p.m., when hunt was called off because of darkness.