Fatal Pedestrian Accident Bemidji MN

On September 22nd, 2013 at 4:48 AM, Bemidji Police Officers, along with Bemidji Fire and Bemidji Ambulance personnel, responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian accident in the 800 block of Paul Bunyan Drive South. Upon arrival, officers discovered Andrew Willard Reed, age 54, of Bemidji lying in the northbound traffic lane of Paul Bunyan Drive South. Mr. Reed had a significant head injury and was pronounced dead by members of the Bemidji Ambulance Service. Mr. Reed’s body was transported to Sanford Medical Center in Bemidji.

The driver of the vehicle, Floyd LaDuke of Bemidji, stated that he was driving northbound in the left lane of Paul Bunyan Drive South. He did not see Mr. Reed, who was wearing all dark colored clothing, standing on the center dividing line until the impact occurred. Mr. LaDuke immediately stopped to render aid and called law enforcement. Mr. LaDuke showed no signs of impairment and submitted a breath sample which, disclosed no alcohol in his system. No charges are being pursued at this time.

The Bemidji Police Department was assisted in the investigation by a Minnesota State Patrol accident Reconstructionist.

Mike Mastin, Chief of Police

Bemidji Police Department