What’s the story behind Minnesota’s ‘UFO car’?
A peculiar incident from 1979 near Warren resulted in mysterious damage to a deputy’s squad car.
The amber-colored Ford LTD, which has been permanently displayed at the Marshall County Historical Society museum in Warren, Minnesota, features a cracked windshield and bent antennas that many interpret as signs of an extraterrestrial encounter. This so-called “UFO car” attracts visitors from across the nation, with some traveling over 1,000 miles to see it.
“People come from all over, and they often have just one thing on their minds: to see the car. They take a look, then they’re on their way,” noted Kent Broten, president of the historical society.
Although the incident that affected Marshall County Deputy Sheriff Val Johnson’s vehicle occurred more than four decades ago and was not mentioned in Elizondo’s book, Newsweek recognized it as one of the most credible UFO encounters in modern history back in 2019.
The story of Minnesota’s “UFO car” is a fascinating blend of local lore and extraterrestrial intrigue. It all began on a night in 1979 when Deputy Sheriff Val Johnson was on patrol near Warren. During his shift, Johnson had a peculiar encounter that would become notorious in UFO circles. He reported seeing a bright light in the sky, and soon after, his squad car sustained mysterious damage — a cracked windshield, bent antennas, and scuffed hood.
The incident was investigated, but no definitive explanation was found, leading many to speculate about possible extraterrestrial involvement. The fact that Johnson experienced a significant time loss during the event only fueled the speculation. Over the years, this encounter has captivated both skeptics and believers alike, leading to its recognition as one of the most credible UFO sightings in modern history.
The amber-colored Ford LTD, now dubbed the “UFO car,” has become a major attraction at the Marshall County Historical Society museum. It serves as a tangible piece of this intriguing mystery, drawing visitors from across the country who are eager to learn about the incident and possibly catch a glimpse of what might have been an encounter with the unknown.
Whether you’re a UFO enthusiast or a curious traveler, the “UFO car” continues to spark conversation and wonder about what might really be out there in the cosmos. It’s a testament to how a single event can capture the imagination and become a lasting part of local history.