Minnesota DNR Officer Sarah Grell dies in crash near Grand Rapids
Sarah Grell, a Minnesota DNR conservation officer, was killed in a car crash Monday morning. (Minnesota DNR)
(FOX 9) - A conservation officer with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources died in a crash near Grand Rapids, Minnesota Monday morning.
The DNR identified the officer as Sarah Grell, of Cohasset. She was stationed in Grand Rapids and leaves behind a husband and three children, the DNR says.
Grell had served as a DNR officer since 2005. Her uncle, father and grandfather also worked as conservation officers, her husband, Gene Grell, works for the DNR's Forestry Division and her mother worked for DNR Fisheries.
The Minnesota State Patrol says Grell was travelling north on Itasca County Road 336 just after 8:30 a.m. Monday morning when a semi collided with the driver's door of her pickup truck, killing her.
The semi driver was a 42-year-old Grand Rapids man.
Grell is the 23rd Minnesota conservation officer to die in the line of duty. Gov. Tim Walz said Monday he plans to order flags to be flown at half-staff at all state and federal buildings in the near future.
Here is the full statement from Gov. Tim Walz:
Gwen and I extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Officer Sarah Grell, especially her husband, DNR Forester Gene Grell, and their children. Officer Grell came from a long line of DNR Conservation Officers, including her father, uncle, and grandfather. In keeping with the family tradition, Officer Grell was committed to protecting both our state’s natural resources as well as those who enjoy them. We are grateful for her service and the service of all our Conservation Officers who make our state a great place to live. My ask of Minnesotans is that the next time you meet a Conservation Officer as you enjoy Minnesota’s public lands and waters, remember Officer Grell and thank that officer for their work.
DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen issued the following statement:
The sense of loss we feel right now is indescribable. We are heartbroken for her family. Our deepest sympathies and concerns are with them. Officer Grell leaves behind an incredible legacy of service to Minnesota’s people and natural resources.
Rep. Spencer Igo, who represents Grell's district, issued the following statement:
Minnesotans across the Northland are heartbroken tonight to learn of the tragic passing of Officer Sarah Grell. I want to send my deepest condolences and prayers to her family, loved ones and all those at the DNR who are mourning the loss of a friend and colleague.