Local hero honored by American Legion

Blake Krumrei of Big Lake was recognized recently for his heroic actions during a tragic car accident last year.

In April, the 6th District American Legion Auxiliary of Minnesota honored Krumrei, a 2021 Big Lake High School graduate, awarding him a youth hero award, complete with a certificate and medal, from the National Commander.

Krumrei was lauded for helping to save the lives of three women who were involved in a devastating accident on Interstate 94 in St. Michael on Oct. 21, 2023.

Krumrei and his father, Paul Krumrei were driving home along westbound I-94 when they watched as a pair of wheels on an axle broke off the back of a semi-truck, going over the median and crashing into an SUV that was heading in the opposite direction.

The pair jumped into action, running to the crushed vehicle and pulling out three of the five passengers, who were badly injured. Two of the five women in the Nissan Rogue were killed in the crash.