A devastating accident in Stearns County on Thursday morning claimed the life of 63-year-old Todd Thorstad of Glenwood, leaving his family, friends, and community heartbroken.
The crash occurred just before 9 a.m. at the intersection of Highway 71 and Highway 28 in Sauk Centre Township, a busy stretch connecting central Minnesota towns. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, Thorstad was riding his motorcycle behind a pickup truck that had stopped on Highway 28 to turn north onto Highway 71.
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Investigators say a straight truck, driven by 32-year-old Ramon Garcia Rangel of St. Paul, struck Thorstad’s motorcycle from behind, forcing it into the rear of the pickup truck, driven by 22-year-old Dayton Kasten-Jensen of Alexandria. Thorstad was fatally injured at the scene, while the other drivers were not hurt.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash, reviewing factors such as speed, distraction, and visibility. While no signs of impairment have been reported, a full review is underway.
Thorstad’s death has sent shockwaves through Glenwood, where he was known for his warmth, generosity, and love of the outdoors. Friends and family describe him as loyal, genuine, and deeply caring — a man who embraced the freedom of the open road and the fellowship of Minnesota’s motorcycle community.
The tragedy has also reignited calls for drivers to remain alert and cautious around motorcyclists, especially at intersections and during the fall season when visibility can be challenging. Advocates stress the importance of checking mirrors and blind spots and giving riders extra space.
Loved ones are beginning to plan memorials to celebrate Thorstad’s life, while tributes continue to pour in online. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days as the community rallies around his family during this heartbreaking time.