Beltrami County (trfnews.i234.me) — A Bemidji man died Friday after his pickup entered the Mississippi River in Frohn Township.
The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office identified the driver as Dale Clark Suther, 60, of Bemidji. Authorities said Suther was driving north on Sunnyside Road on Friday, March 20. At some point, his Ford F-150 left the roadway. The truck then crossed a residential yard and entered the river.
What Happened
People nearby saw the crash and rushed to help. Bystanders tried to reach Suther before the truck sank. Their efforts were quick, but the vehicle went under fast.
Emergency crews were called just before 5 p.m. First responders arrived a short time later. The Lakes Area Dive Team also responded to the scene. Divers later recovered Suther from the truck. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation Continues
Officials have not said what caused the truck to leave the road. They also have not released more details about road or water conditions. The crash remains under investigation. Officials have not released a timeline for the case.
The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation. More information may be released after that work is complete. The sheriff’s office posts public safety updates on its official website.
Anyone with information about the crash should contact the sheriff’s office. Officials have not said whether any other factors played a role. No other details were released in the initial report.
Official Resources
Readers can find more county information through the Beltrami County website. Readers can also learn more about the river through the National Park Service Mississippi River page.
Friday’s crash drew a fast response from witnesses and rescue crews. It also ended in tragedy for a Bemidji family and community. The case remains open as investigators review the incident.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
