Anchorage teen survives moose strike on Minnesota Drive

Anchorage Fire Department crews used Jaws of Life tools to free an 18-year-old woman from a crushed vehicle Monday evening after a moose struck her car on Minnesota Drive near the Raspberry exit. The collision involved impact forces estimated at 30,000 to 40,000 pounds. Firefighter Jason Dolph explained that when a vehicle hits a moose at highway speeds, the animal often becomes suspended in the air before landing on the vehicle. In this incident, the moose landed on the hood, windshield, and roof area.

Autumn Stone was driving home when the animal appeared in the roadway. Her mother, Megan Stone, stated that Autumn had no time to brake. Firefighters found the vehicle badly damaged with Stone trapped inside. It took several crews to cut her free. Megan Stone said medical personnel, from EMTs to doctors, expressed amazement at her daughter’s survival.

Fish and Game Biologist Cory Stantorf noted that the Anchorage bowl typically experiences about 100 moose-vehicle collisions annually. He said the number of incidents tends to increase during this time of year. Stantorf attributed the rise to moose moving during the rut and drivers commuting in pitch-black conditions. He emphasized that without snow on the ground to provide contrast, moose are harder to see. Stantorf advised drivers to slow down because reaction times are shorter than in summer.

Megan Stone said her daughter is currently in the intensive care unit. She is expected to remain there for several days. Stone reported that Autumn has brain bruising, lacerations, and a broken hand. She said there are no catastrophic injuries. Megan Stone viewed photos of the wreck and described the scene as horrifying. She said she is grateful for her daughter’s survival and understands how close the family came to losing her.

Autumn Stone is 18 years old. The crash occurred on Monday evening. The location was Minnesota Drive near the Raspberry exit. The moose caused structural damage to the top and front of the car. Firefighter Jason Dolph provided the force estimates. Biologist Cory Stantorf provided the annual collision count and seasonal context. Megan Stone provided the injury details and family reaction.