Elderly Driver Crashes Into Maple Grove Home, Dies from Injuries

A Maple Grove home turned into a jarring scene Thursday when a vehicle crashed into the garage, starting a fire.

According to police, a vehicle slammed into the garage of a home at the corner of 96th Avenue and Minnesota Lane in Maple Grove. The car became fully engulfed.

“I called 911, tried to get someone out because he was unconscious,” said Jessica Pouliot, the homeowner. “My neighbor came out. He saw the whole thing with him crashing in, and when we were on the phone with dispatch, his car just started on fire.”

The Maple Grove Fire Department quickly got the fire under control and first responders removed the man from the vehicle.

Some of the aftermath of Thursday’s incident in Maple Grove.

The man, who was in his 70s or 80s, was taken to the hospital, where he later died, according to Maple Grove Police Commander Jon Wetternach.

“I don’t know who he was,” Pouliot said.

A preliminary investigation shows the elderly driver may have suffered a medical event leading to the crash. The identity of the man has not yet been released.

Two police officers also had to be taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation. The officers are expected to recover, police said.

Pouliot said she and her husband will stay with family while their home is restored. Much of the fire damage was contained to the garage.

Maple Grove