27 August 1979 / T141
Val Johnson: a damaged patrol car and a reported bright-light encounter
State Highway 220, near Stephen, Marshall County, Minnesota
Witness account
Deputy Val Johnson said a bright light approached his patrol car, followed by a breaking-glass sound and a loss of awareness. He was found with injuries and the vehicle had damage to its windshield, lights, hood and antennas. He did not claim to have seen aliens or identify a spaceship; the UFO label reflects uncertainty about the encounter’s cause.
Public record
The sheriff’s investigation, photographs, medical attention and preserved vehicle provide concrete documentation of the aftermath. Reports that the car clock and wristwatch were fourteen minutes behind are part of the case, but do not independently demonstrate a time-distortion mechanism. CUFOS examined the car, and different investigators considered electrical or atmospheric explanations, including ball lightning.