Young Driver Arrested After Crash Near Detroit Lakes Bar

A Detroit Lakes teenager is facing charges after a crash near the Sunlite Bar and Grill on Saturday evening, January 18th.
Ronald Wright III, 18, was driving north on County Highway 21 when his vehicle lost control and struck a tree just south of the bar. The impact stopped the car from entering the establishment. Wright and his passenger, a 15-year-old girl from Detroit Lakes, both sustained injuries and sought help inside the bar.
Authorities say both were wearing seatbelts, but alcohol and speed are suspected to have played a role in the crash. Wright was taken to Essentia-St. Mary’s by ambulance, while his passenger was transported privately. After being treated, Wright was released and arrested for Criminal Vehicular Operation. He remains in the Becker County Jail, with court proceedings pending.
The crash is under investigation by the Becker County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Detroit Lakes Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol, and Essentia-St. Mary’s. Officials report the tree may have prevented a much worse situation, as the vehicle was close to entering the busy bar.
Sources: Becker County Sheriff’s Office; DL-Online, January 19, 2025; KVVR.com, January 19, 2025