The Morrison County Sheriff's Office has reported a serious ATV crash that occurred on September 1, according to a press release from the county. The accident took place at approximately 9:23 pm on 243rd Street, a mile east of Harding in Pulaski Township. The driver, identified as Cory Loidolt, 36, from Pierz, MN, reportedly lost control of his vehicle, causing it to overturn in a ditch.
In the aftermath of the crash, Loidolt was air lifted to St. Cloud Hospital with injuries that have yet to been disclosed to the public. Speculation is that alcohol may have been a factor in the incident; officials have confirmed that this case is still under investigation. Responders to the scene included the Morrison County Sheriff's Office, Pierz Fire Department, Sullivan Lake First Response Team, North Air Care, and Mayo Clinic Ambulance.
This latest incident marks the ninth ATV-related crash reported in Morrison County this year. Tragically, three of these have ended in fatalities. With this alarming statistic in mind, Morrison County Sheriff Shawn Larsen has issued a plea to ATV riders. "Safety measures," he stresses, "is something that everyone needs to adhere to." Larsen pointedly reminds residents and ATV enthusiasts that complying with local laws, and avoiding risky behaviors, is crucial for preventing future tragedies.
Sheriff's Office reports have identified ongoing concerns regarding the use of ATVs in the region, outlining issues that have resulted in repeated accidents and loss of life.
