SHAKOPEE, Minn. — A devastating crash late Sunday night claimed the life of 46-year-old Kala Karlene Henry of Chaska after her vehicle was struck from behind at high speed by 20-year-old Goay Gatluak Jikany on Highway 169, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The collision tragically ended Henry’s life and left the community in shock.
The fatal crash occurred around 11:39 p.m. in the southbound lanes near Marystown Road. Authorities say Henry was driving her Chevrolet Cobalt at the posted speed limit when Jikany’s GMC Acadia rapidly approached from behind and slammed into the rear driver’s side of her vehicle.
The violent impact sent Henry’s car off the roadway and into the right ditch, where it struck a culvert, rolled, and came to rest upside down. Jikany’s SUV came to a stop in the right lane, severely damaged and facing the wrong direction.
Emergency responders from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Shakopee Police Department, Shakopee Fire Department, and Allina EMS arrived within minutes and found Henry critically injured. She was transported to St. Francis Regional Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead. Troopers confirmed Henry had been wearing her seat belt, and no alcohol was detected in her system.
Investigators noted a stark contrast in safety precautions between the two drivers. Jikany, who was not wearing a seat belt, sustained injuries described as non-life-threatening. The State Patrol reported that alcohol was involved on his part. He was transported to M Health Fairview Southdale for treatment.
Roadway conditions were dry at the time of the crash, and weather is not believed to have been a contributing factor. Troopers continue to investigate the circumstances of the collision, including speed, impairment, and any potential reckless driving leading up to the fatal impact.
Authorities say formal charges against Jikany are expected soon as the investigation progresses.
The tragic loss of Kala Karlene Henry has sent shockwaves through the Chaska and Shakopee communities. Loved ones, neighbors, and residents continue to mourn her untimely passing as officials work to determine all contributing factors in this fatal crash.
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