MN State Trooper Dies In Tragic Off-Duty Accident

ST. PAUL, MN — The Minnesota State Patrol is mourning the death of Trooper Mollie McClure, who died in a tragic off-duty accident on Waubay Lake in northeastern South Dakota.

Patch has contacted the agency for more information. Currently, authorities have not released details about the circumstances of McClure’s death, citing respect for her family’s privacy.

The agency said McClure was a dedicated and valued member of the State Patrol family.

After joining the agency in October 2021, she served in the St. Cloud district, quickly earning a reputation as a respected trooper, mentor, and friend.

Her professionalism, compassion, and commitment to service left a lasting impact on her colleagues and the community, officials said.

Throughout her career, McClure contributed in many ways, including training trooper academy cadets, serving as a peer counselor, and participating in a workgroup focused on increasing the number of female troopers within the agency.

Beyond her official duties, McClure’s passion for helping others was widely recognized. In 2023, a video of her rescuing a baby deer trapped in a roadside fence went viral on YouTube.

She was also a frequent and beloved presence at recruiting events, where her ability to connect with people was greatly appreciated.

"The Minnesota State Patrol extends its heartfelt condolences to Trooper McClure’s family, friends, and fellow troopers during this profoundly difficult time," the agency said in a statement.

"The agency stands united in support and honor of her memory. Out of respect for the family’s wishes, privacy is requested as they grieve this immense loss."

The Minnesota State Patrol thanked its partners who provided support "throughout this incident," including the Day County Sheriff’s Office, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, South Dakota Highway Patrol, Day County Emergency Management, Codington County Search and Rescue, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.