Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash in Cedar Lake Township

According to a press release from the Scott County Sheriff's Office:

On September 10, 2022, at 12:49 a.m., Scott County Sheriff’s Office 911 Dispatch received a report of a single-vehicle crash that occurred on 240th Street East, just west of Cedar Lake Drive in Cedar Lake Township.

Upon arrival, deputies observed a pickup truck fully engulfed in flames and an adult female near the vehicle with injuries consistent with a motor vehicle crash.  

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2022 Dodge Ram with two occupants, was traveling westbound on 240th Street East when it failed to negotiate a turn and left the roadway into the tree line, causing the vehicle to start on fire.  

The front passenger, Debra Marie Henry (67) of New Prague, was able to exit the vehicle and sustained non-life-threatening injuries.  Henry was transported by ambulance to St. Francis Regional Hospital in Shakopee.  The driver, Dennis Wayne Ensfield (70) of New Prague, was located in the driver’s seat and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

There was evidence recovered at the scene which suggests that alcohol may have been a factor; however, the incident remains under investigation.

“We would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family of the victim in this incident,” said Sheriff Luke Hennen.  He added, “I want to remind all drivers to never get behind the wheel if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.  Please choose to be responsible if you ever find yourself in a situation in which you cannot safely drive yourself or others home.  Call a friend, family member, or use one of the many ridesharing apps that are available on your mobile device.”

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office is investigating this crash.  An official cause of death will be made by the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office was assisted in this incident by New Prague Fire Department and North Memorial Ambulance.