Minnesota state Sen. Torrey Westrom hurt in snowmobile accident

(ABC 6 News) – Minnesota state Sen. Torrey Westrom (R-District 12) was hurt in a snowmobile accident around 3 p.m. Sunday on Lake Ida, according to the Senate Republican Caucus and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

The snowmobile, driven by a 13-year-old family member of Westrom, struck a packed snowdrift, and the impact threw Westrom from his passenger spot, according to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies who went to the scene after a 911 call found the teen, who was not hurt, and Westrom, who was experiencing upper body pain.

A representative of the Senate Republican Caucus said Westrom is recovering in the hospital.

The Caucus also noted the teen was licensed to drive the snowmobile. View the full statement on behalf of Westrom and his family below.

Earlier today, Sen. Torrey Westrom was a passenger on a snowmobile driven by a family member when it struck an ice chunk left from a fish house and caused Westrom to fall off the snowmobile. He was checked out by first responders and brought to the hospital where he remains for observation. The driver, who had received his Youth Snowmobile Safety certification, was not injured. Sen. Westrom sends his thanks to the first responders for their care and fast response. 

Rachel Aplikowski, Senate Republican Caucus, on behalf of the Westrom family