Crow Wing County, MN (June 18, 2026) – A motorcyclist was killed following a collision with a pickup truck Thursday morning at an intersection in Crow Wing County, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 4:49 a.m. on southbound Highway 371 at Pine Beach Road in the West Crow Wing Unorganized Territory.
Investigators said a 1989 Harley-Davidson motorcycle was traveling northbound on Highway 371 and was attempting to make a left turn onto Pine Beach Road when it collided with a southbound 2016 Ford F-150 traveling in the right lane.
The motorcycle rider, a 53-year-old Baxter man, sustained fatal injuries in the crash. Authorities said the victim’s identity will be released at a later time.
The driver of the Ford, 56-year-old Todd Daniel Grimsley of Baxter, was not injured.
Officials reported that road conditions were dry at the time of the collision. The pickup driver was wearing a seat belt, and alcohol is not suspected as a contributing factor.
The Minnesota State Patrol is continuing its investigation with assistance from the Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office, Baxter Police Department, Brainerd Police and Fire, and North Ambulance.
Motorcycle Intersection Crashes Result in Severe Injuries
Collisions involving motorcycles at intersections can be especially dangerous due to the limited protection available to riders. Even when speeds are moderate, the force of impact can lead to catastrophic or fatal injuries.
Investigators reviewing motorcycle crashes typically examine right-of-way factors, vehicle movements, visibility conditions, and witness statements to determine how the collision occurred. Turning maneuvers at intersections are among the most common circumstances associated with serious motorcycle crashes.
Authorities encourage motorists and riders alike to remain alert at intersections and carefully assess approaching traffic before making turns across travel lanes.
