In Loving Memory of Owen P. Hailey
The St. Croix County community is grieving a deeply heartbreaking loss after 8-year-old Owen P. Hailey, a bright and beloved child from New Richmond, tragically passed away following a devastating crash on an icy stretch of County Road A Tuesday morning. His passing has left a profound ache in the hearts of his family, friends, classmates, neighbors, and all who had the joy of knowing him.
Just before 10 a.m. on December 9, 2025, the St. Croix County Emergency Communication Center received a call reporting a two-vehicle crash in Richmond Township. A 2004 Chrysler Pacifica, driven by Owen’s mother, 27-year-old Alisha M. Hailey, lost control on a dangerously icy curve while traveling southbound and collided with a northbound 2018 Subaru Outback. In a matter of seconds, a routine drive turned into a life-altering tragedy.
Owen, seated in the third row of the van, suffered critical injuries in the crash. First responders acted with urgency and compassion, performing lifesaving measures before transporting him to Westfields Hospital in New Richmond. From there, he was transferred by ambulance to Regions Hospital in St. Paul, where dedicated medical teams fought tirelessly to save him. Despite every effort and the incredible strength he showed, Owen passed away later that evening due to the severity of his injuries.
His mother, Alisha, suffered serious injuries and continues to receive treatment at Regions Hospital. The thoughts and prayers of the entire community stand with her as she faces not only physical healing but an unimaginable emotional loss.
The driver of the Subaru, Linda D. Stefonek, age 71, was treated for minor injuries at the scene and released. All individuals involved in the crash were wearing seatbelts, highlighting the tragic force of the collision brought on by winter road conditions.
Owen’s loss marks the tenth traffic fatality in St. Croix County in 2025—a statistic that carries a heavy human weight. Behind that number is a little boy whose life was full of love, joy, and limitless possibility.
Owen was the kind of child who left a burst of light wherever he went. With his bright smile, playful curiosity, and boundless imagination, he had a way of lifting spirits and bringing warmth to every room he entered. He loved deeply, laughed freely, and carried a gentle kindness that made others feel valued. His presence brought joy not only to his family but to his school, his friends, and everyone fortunate enough to cross paths with him.
His family will forever remember his infectious giggles, his excitement for the simplest adventures, and the unconditional love he gave so freely. The memories they hold—from silly conversations to bedtime snuggles to proud moments of watching him grow—are now treasures beyond measure. The loss of such a young and beautiful soul is heartbreaking beyond words.
The community’s response has been one of unity and compassion. Law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs, hospital staff, and neighbors have come together in shared sorrow, lifting up the Hailey family during this devastating time. Owen touched more lives in eight short years than many do in a lifetime, and the outpouring of love surrounding his family speaks to the imprint he leaves on countless hearts.
As the community mourns, it also honors Owen’s life—a life filled with brightness, innocence, and love. Though his time here was far too brief, his impact is everlasting. His spirit lives on in every memory shared, every tear shed, and every heart grieving his loss.
May sweet Owen Hailey rest in eternal peace.
May his family and all who loved him find strength, comfort, and healing in the days ahead.
And may his light continue to shine, forever cherished and never forgotten.