Patrick Steven Remiger Accident – The community of Wood Lake, Minnesota, is mourning the tragic death of Patrick Steven Remiger, 43, who lost his life in a devastating accident on Friday night, September 26, 2025. According to the Yellow Medicine County Sheriff’s Office, Remiger was killed when a Wood Lake fire truck overturned near Cottonwood, leaving two others seriously injured.

The fatal crash occurred at approximately 6:36 p.m. on 490th Street, north of 160th Avenue, near Lakeview School in Cottonwood. Dispatch received a call reporting a single-vehicle accident involving a fire truck. When first responders arrived at the scene, they discovered the Wood Lake fire truck lying on its side in the ditch.

Authorities confirmed that three individuals were inside the vehicle at the time of the crash. Tragically, Remiger was found trapped underneath the truck and pronounced dead at the scene. His passing has left his family, friends, and the broader Wood Lake community in shock and sorrow.

The other two occupants were identified as Andrew Vanhecke, 37, and Beaux Vanhecke, 6, both of Wood Lake. They sustained serious injuries and were initially transported to Avera Marshall Medical Center before being airlifted to Sioux Falls for advanced medical care. As of Saturday morning, no additional details regarding their conditions were released.

The crash has deeply shaken the close-knit communities of Wood Lake and Cottonwood, as both towns share strong ties through their volunteer fire departments, schools, and families. Patrick Remiger, remembered as a dedicated community member, was known for his willingness to help others and his strong work ethic. His sudden passing marks an irreplaceable loss for all who knew him.

The Sheriff’s Office noted that multiple agencies responded to the scene, including the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota State Patrol, Granite Falls Ambulance, Cottonwood Ambulance, Cottonwood Fire Department, and the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office. Their coordinated efforts highlight the seriousness of the incident and the urgency with which emergency services acted in hopes of saving lives.

Though the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, authorities are continuing to gather details. The community awaits answers while rallying around the Remiger and Vanhecke families during this time of grief.

Patrick Steven Remiger’s death is not only a family tragedy but also a community one. His life was a reflection of service, kindness, and devotion to those around him. Friends and neighbors remember him as someone who could always be counted on, whether in everyday life or in times of need. His legacy will live on through the memories he created and the lives he touched.

Funeral arrangements and memorial services for Patrick Steven Remiger will be announced by his family in the coming days. The outpouring of support from friends, neighbors, and fellow Minnesotans stands as a testament to the impact he made during his life.