James Wilton and Greg Steil Death and Obituary – A tragic two-vehicle crash occurred on Monday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of both drivers involved. The accident took place just after 5:00 p.m. on Highway 23, near milepost 189, near Cold Spring, Minnesota. The Minnesota State Patrol confirmed that the incident was a fatal head-on collision between two vehicles. The victims have been identified as 52-year-old James Wilton of Fairchild, Wisconsin, and 35-year-old Greg Steil of Richmond, Minnesota.
According to the preliminary crash report, James Wilton was driving in the wrong direction on the highway. He was heading east in the westbound lanes when his vehicle collided head-on with a 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan, driven by Greg Steil. The collision was severe, and both drivers sustained fatal injuries. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash, but both men were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities confirmed that no other individuals were involved in the crash.
The Minnesota State Patrol is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident. At this stage, it is not clear why Wilton was driving in the wrong direction. There is no immediate confirmation that impairment or distraction played a role in the crash. Investigators will examine all possible contributing factors, including road conditions, weather, and the driver’s health at the time of the accident. As of now, the cause of the crash remains under investigation, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Following the crash, a section of Highway 23 was temporarily closed off to allow law enforcement officers to investigate and clear the scene. Drivers in the area experienced detours, and officials worked diligently to remove debris and ensure the road was safe for reopening. The highway was reopened after the investigation and cleanup were completed.
Both communities have been deeply affected by the tragic loss. Greg Steil, a resident of Richmond, Minnesota, is being remembered by his friends, family, and community for his friendly and approachable nature. Known for his contributions to the local community, Steil’s passing has left those who knew him in mourning. In Fairchild, Wisconsin, James Wilton’s family and friends are grieving the loss of a man who was unexpectedly taken from them. The impact of the crash is felt not only by the immediate families of the deceased but also by the broader communities in which they lived.
In response to the accident, the Minnesota State Patrol has once again emphasized the importance of road safety. Law enforcement officials are urging drivers to stay vigilant and to report any unusual driving behavior immediately. They remind motorists that swift action in notifying authorities about potential hazards can be the difference between life and death.
As the investigation into the crash continues, authorities are working to gather more details. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available. Meanwhile, the communities of Cold Spring, Richmond, and Fairchild continue to mourn the tragic loss of two lives in this devastating accident. The Minnesota State Patrol urges everyone to drive responsibly, be aware of their surroundings, and prioritize safety on the road to prevent further accidents.