In the stillness of the early morning on October 25th, 2025, tragedy unfolded in Chisago City—an event that would forever change the lives of families, friends, and an entire community. At approximately 1:58 a.m., Chisago County Dispatch received an automated crash alert near the intersection of Stacy Trail and Ivywood Trail. Responding officers and emergency crews rushed to the scene, where they found the aftermath of a devastating two-vehicle head-on collision—a scene that would echo through the hearts of many.
Inside one of the vehicles, a 2014 Toyota Camry, were three young teenagers: a 14-year-old driver and two 15-year-old passengers. Among them was Ashton Oseth, a boy remembered for his bright spirit, his gentle heart, and his joyful presence. Tragically, Ashton did not survive the crash and passed away at the scene. His loss has left a deep and immeasurable pain in the lives of all who knew and loved him.
The other teens in the Camry suffered serious injuries—one was airlifted to Regions Hospital, while another was transported there by ambulance. In the second vehicle, a 2000 Toyota 4-Runner, a 17-year-old driver and an 18-year-old passenger were also hurt. The driver was flown to Regions Hospital, while the passenger was taken to HCMC for urgent medical care. Alcohol was located at the scene, and authorities are investigating whether it played a role—a reminder of how fragile life is, how quickly it can change, and how vital it is to protect one another, especially our youth.
But this story is not only about a crash.
It is about a life.
It is about Ashton.
Remembering Ashton
Ashton was so much more than the circumstances of that night. He was a young man full of promise, dreams, love, and laughter. People who knew him speak of his kindness—the quiet, genuine kind that made others feel welcome and seen. He had a way of showing up for his friends, bringing warmth and humor even on the hardest days.
He was a son.
A brother.
A friend.
A teammate.
A classmate.
A child who made the world brighter simply by being in it.
Ashton had dreams he looked forward to—dreams of who he would become, the adventures ahead, and the life he was excited to build. The loss is not only of a precious life lived, but of all the beautiful moments still unwritten.
The grief now felt by those who love him is vast and heavy. Yet the love he shared remains. It continues in memories spoken, photos held, stories retold, and the imprint he leaves behind in the hearts of those who had the honor of knowing him.
A Community United in Grief and Love
In the wake of this tragedy, Chisago City has come together—leaning on one another, supporting one another, holding Ashton’s family close in compassion.
First responders, teachers, classmates, neighbors, and friends have all felt the ache of this loss.
Responding agencies included the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office, Chisago City Fire Department, Stacy-Lent Fire Department, Lakes Region EMS, M-Health, and the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office. Their service in a moment of profound tragedy is deeply appreciated.
Though no words can erase the pain, the community stands hand in hand, heart to heart.
Forever in Our Hearts
As we honor Ashton’s life, may we do so by living with the love he carried:
- Be gentler with one another
- Cherish every moment, even the small ones
- Never take a shared laugh for granted
- Look out for each other—especially the young and vulnerable
To Ashton’s family: Your community holds you in love and strength.
To his friends: Keep his joy alive in the way you live, speak, and care.
And to Ashton:
Your light remains.
Your name is spoken with love.
You will never be forgotten.
Rest in Peace,
Ashton Oseth
Forever Loved. Forever Missed.
