Longtime KARE 11 news anchor Julie Nelson is recovering after being injured in a boating accident in Wisconsin that also left her husband, Kurt Krumenauer, hurt. The couple was involved in a single-boat crash on Balsam Lake on the night of June 13, 2026, prompting emergency responders and local residents to rush to their aid.
While authorities continue to investigate what led to the accident, Nelson has reassured viewers and supporters that both she and her husband suffered non-life-threatening injuries and are focused on healing.
Boat Crash on Balsam Lake
According to information released by local authorities, the accident occurred around 11:00 p.m. near Pine Island on Balsam Lake in Wisconsin. Nelson and Krumenauer were traveling in a pontoon boat when it reportedly struck the island.
Witnesses in the area quickly responded after the crash. Local residents helped remove the couple from the water and assisted until emergency medical personnel arrived on the scene.
The prompt actions of nearby boaters and bystanders are believed to have played an important role in ensuring both individuals received immediate medical attention.
Julie Nelson Shares Update
Nelson personally addressed the incident through a message posted on her official Facebook page. In the statement, she informed viewers that she would be stepping away from her television duties temporarily to recover from her injuries.
She expressed gratitude for the support her family has received since news of the accident became public. The veteran broadcaster also emphasized that both she and her husband are expected to recover.
Her message immediately generated thousands of reactions from viewers, colleagues, and community members who have followed her career for decades.
Injuries Described as Non-Life-Threatening
Officials have not released detailed information about the specific injuries suffered by Nelson and Krumenauer. However, Nelson confirmed that both were treated for injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
The lack of severe injuries has been a source of relief for her supporters throughout Minnesota and beyond. Medical professionals continue to monitor their recovery, though no timeline has been announced regarding Nelson’s return to television.
For now, her focus remains on rest and rehabilitation while spending time with family.
Investigation Remains Active
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is leading the investigation into the boating accident. Authorities have confirmed that the crash involved only one vessel and that the pontoon boat struck Pine Island.
Investigators are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision, including environmental conditions, visibility, and other factors that may have contributed to the incident.
Because the investigation remains open, officials have declined to release additional details at this stage.
Any findings from the investigation could help provide a clearer understanding of how the accident occurred and whether any safety recommendations may follow.
Support From Viewers and Colleagues
News of the accident prompted an immediate outpouring of support across social media. Fellow journalists, television personalities, and longtime viewers shared messages wishing Nelson and her husband a speedy recovery.
Many supporters described Nelson as a trusted presence in Minnesota households and expressed appreciation for her transparency in sharing the news.
The response highlights the strong connection she has built with audiences throughout her broadcasting career. For many viewers, Nelson has been a familiar face delivering important news and community stories for years.
A Respected Career in Broadcasting
Julie Nelson is widely recognized as one of Minnesota’s most prominent television journalists. She has served as a key member of KARE 11’s news team for more than two decades and has co-anchored the station’s evening newscasts since 2003.
Throughout her career, she has covered major local and national events while earning a reputation for professionalism and credibility. Her work has helped make her one of the most recognizable figures in regional television news.
Over the years, Nelson has received numerous honors and industry recognition for her contributions to journalism.
When Will Julie Nelson Return?
At this time, no official return date has been announced. Nelson’s temporary leave from KARE 11 will allow her to focus entirely on her recovery before resuming her broadcasting responsibilities.
Viewers can expect further updates from Nelson or the station when more information becomes available.
For now, the positive news is that both Nelson and her husband survived the crash and are recovering from injuries that authorities say are not life-threatening. As the investigation continues, supporters across Minnesota and Wisconsin remain hopeful for a smooth and complete recovery for the longtime news anchor and her family.