NORMAN COUNTY (trfnews.i234.me) – TRF News is reporting a heartbreaking incident from Norman County, Minnesota, where an off-duty sheriff’s deputy was seriously injured after being struck by a vehicle while trying to assist an injured dog late Thursday night.
The Norman County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the accident occurred just before 11 p.m. along County Highway 29, approximately 9 miles east of Twin Valley. Authorities say 41-year-old Christopher Lee, an off-duty Norman County Deputy, was crossing the highway to check on a dog that had been hit by a separate vehicle when tragedy struck.
As Lee attempted to reach the injured animal, he was struck by an oncoming SUV. The collision left him with serious injuries, requiring emergency air transport to a Fargo hospital for treatment.
The drivers involved have been identified as 34-year-old Dalton Moore and 21-year-old Jaidan Bartz, both residents of Twin Valley. Authorities noted that both drivers remained on the scene and assisted Lee until first responders arrived.
The Minnesota State Patrol is now leading the investigation into both incidents — the initial collision involving the dog and the subsequent accident that critically injured Deputy Lee.
As of now, no further details have been released about Lee’s condition or whether charges may be filed in connection with the crash.
This tragic event has shaken the Norman County community, where Lee is well-known not only as a law enforcement officer but also as a compassionate individual dedicated to helping others, including the helpless.
Did you know?
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Pedestrian-related vehicle accidents are significantly more dangerous at night due to limited visibility.
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Law enforcement officers are often at higher risk of roadside accidents when assisting at scenes without traffic control.
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Minnesota law requires drivers to use extreme caution when approaching stopped vehicles or pedestrians on highways, especially during emergencies.
I’m Chris Harper, and I’m reporting for TRF News.