SAUK CENTRE TOWNSHIP, Minn. – A tragic accident in Stearns County has left a family and community grieving after a motorcycle rider was killed in a collision on Thursday morning. The Minnesota State Patrolconfirmed that the victim was 63-year-old Todd Thorstad of Glenwood, whose life was cut short in a devastating chain reaction crash.

The incident occurred just before 9:00 a.m. at the intersection of Highway 71 and Highway 28 in Sauk Centre Township, a busy roadway that connects several central Minnesota communities. According to investigators, a pickup truck had been stopped in the eastbound lane of Highway 28, waiting to turn north onto Highway 71. Directly behind that pickup was Thorstad, riding his motorcycle.

Troopers say the chain of events began when a straight truck, driven by 32-year-old Ramon Garcia Rangel of St. Paul, rear-ended Thorstad’s motorcycle. The force of the impact pushed the bike into the rear of the pickup truck, driven by 22-year-old Dayton Kasten-Jensen of Alexandria. Tragically, Thorstad was fatally injured at the scene, while both drivers of the other vehicles were not hurt.

The crash is now under active investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol, with assistance from local emergency crews. Authorities are working to piece together what led to the collision, including whether factors such as speed, distraction, or visibility may have played a role. Early reports indicate that no immediate signs of impairment were present, though a full report will be completed after further examination.

The death of Todd Thorstad has sent shockwaves through Glenwood and beyond. Known for his warmth and his love of the outdoors, Thorstad was a man who enjoyed the freedom of the open road and the camaraderie that comes with being part of Minnesota’s motorcycle community. His friends and family describe him as a kind-hearted and dependable individual, someone who always had a smile to share and time to lend a hand.

Motorcycle riders across the state have long emphasized the vulnerability of bikers in multi-vehicle crashes. The tragedy highlights the ongoing need for motorists to remain vigilant, especially during the fall season when road conditions can change quickly and motorcycles may be harder to see. Advocates urge drivers to give extra space, check mirrors and blind spots carefully, and remain alert in intersections like the one where Thursday’s crash occurred.

As news of the accident spreads, loved ones are beginning to organize gatherings to remember Thorstad’s life and legacy. Many who knew him have taken to social media to express their grief and share stories of the countless ways he touched lives. Words like “caring,” “loyal,” and “genuine” have been repeated again and again, painting a picture of a man who lived fully and loved deeply.

For now, the focus remains on supporting Thorstad’s family as they navigate this sudden and heartbreaking loss. Funeral arrangements will be shared in the coming days, and the community is expected to rally in honor of the man they lost too soon.

Thorstad’s tragic passing is a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be and the importance of vigilance on the road. He will be remembered not only for the way he lived, but for the love and laughter he brought to those around him.