Driver Arrested After Crash Near Detroit Lakes Bar

Detroit Lakes, MN – A young Detroit Lakes man was arrested Saturday night (January 18th) after crashing near a local bar.

According to the Becker County Sheriff’s Office, officials received a 911 call at around 7:34 p.m. from the Sunlite Bar and Grill, reporting a male and female walked into the bar and claimed they had crashed nearby, with both having serious injuries.

Initial investigations indicate that 18-year-old Ronald Alvin Wright of Detroit Lakes was travelling north on County Highway 21 when he lost control and struck a tree on the south side of the Sunlite Bar and Grill, stopping it from entering the establishment. Both occupants are believed to have worn seatbelts, although alcohol and speed may have been contributing factors.

Wright was transported to Essentia-St. Mary’s Hospital by ambulance. The other occupant, a 15-year-old female from Detroit Lakes, was also taken to St. Mary’s by private vehicle.

Wright was later released from the hospital and arrested for Criminal Vehicular Operation. He was booked into Becker County jail with court pending. The crash remains under investigation.

The Becker County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Detroit Lakes Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol, and Essentia-St. Mary’s.