The community near Sauk Centre is in mourning following a devastating collision that claimed the lives of Lener Carrasco Salgado and Nayeli Hernandez.
The incident occurred approximately six miles south of Sauk Centre at the junction of Highway 71 and County Road 28, where emergency responders were dispatched around 7:30 a.m. on Sunday.
The crash involved a pickup truck traveling south on Highway 71 and an SUV heading east on County Road 28.
Lener Carrasco Salgado, born on May 12, 1987, was a cherished resident of Sauk Centre.
Known for his warm heart and dedication to his family and friends, Lener was a hardworking individual who was respected by all who knew him.
He worked as a construction foreman, where his leadership and expertise were greatly valued.
Lener was known for his ability to bring out the best in his team, and his colleagues admired his work ethic and commitment.
Lener’s love for his family was evident in everything he did. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Maria, and a loving father to their two children, Diego and Sofia.
He enjoyed spending weekends with his family, often taking them on outdoor adventures such as fishing, hiking, and camping.
His children remember him as a playful and caring father who always made time for them, despite his busy work schedule.
Nayeli Hernandez, a passenger in the SUV, was a close family friend and equally beloved by the community.
Born on August 23, 1990, Nayeli was a vibrant and compassionate individual who worked as a nurse at a local hospital.
Her dedication to her patients and her gentle, caring nature made her a cherished member of the healthcare team.
Nayeli’s friends and family remember her for her infectious smile and her unwavering support for those in need.
The sudden and tragic loss of Lener and Nayeli has left the community in deep sorrow.
Both were actively involved in their local church, where they participated in various community service projects and events.
Their contributions to the community and the lives they touched will not be forgotten.
A joint memorial service to honor the lives of Lener Carrasco Salgado and Nayeli Hernandez will be held on July 8th at the Sauk Centre Community Church.
Friends, family, and community members will gather to pay their respects and celebrate the lives of these two remarkable individuals.
In lieu of flowers, the families request that donations be made to a fund established to support the education of Lener’s children, Diego and Sofia, and to the local hospital’s nursing scholarship program in Nayeli’s memory.
Lener Carrasco Salgado’s legacy of hard work, love, and dedication to his family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.
Nayeli Hernandez’s compassionate spirit and commitment to helping others will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to cross her path.
Their untimely passing has left a void that can never be filled, but their memories will live on in the hearts of their loved ones and the community they served so selflessly.