Tragic Suicide on Highway 36 in Lake Elmo Causes Evening Road Closure
Note: This article is based on information from the Minnesota State Patrol, MnDOT, and other official sources. It is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
A section of eastbound Highway 36 in Lake Elmo was closed for several hours on Wednesday evening, November 26, 2025, following a tragic incident where a man died by suicide. The Minnesota State Patrol is investigating the event, which occurred near the intersection with Highlands Trail North.
The closure began around 5:30 PM, shutting down eastbound lanes between Hilton Trail and Highlands Trail North as first responders worked at the scene. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) had initially anticipated the closure would last until at least 10 PM, but all lanes were reopened by 9 PM.
The incident and investigation
Authorities from the Minnesota State Patrol confirmed that the crash investigation was prompted by the death of a man from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The incident was reported at approximately 4:52 PM. Law enforcement stated that no other vehicles or individuals were involved in the accident.
A broader look at Minnesota road safety
While this Lake Elmo incident was an isolated, tragic event, it occurred amid heightened concerns about road safety in Minnesota. The state has recently experienced its first significant winter storm, resulting in a sharp increase in traffic incidents.
- Hundreds of storm-related crashes: The Minnesota State Patrol reported nearly 300 crashes on state roads between noon on Tuesday and 6 AM on Wednesday. These included 253 property damage crashes and 30 crashes with injuries
- Ongoing hazardous conditions: Even after the storm passed, dangerous travel conditions persisted. On Wednesday morning alone, the State Patrol handled another 80 crashes in a two-hour window, alongside numerous vehicles spinning out or leaving the road
- Other recent fatal crashes: Separate from the weather-related incidents, Minnesota roads have seen other fatal collisions in recent days. One person was killed in a two-vehicle crash in Otter Tail County early on November 27, and two drivers died in a head-on, rollover crash in Wright County over the past weekend
Mental health and crisis resources
In reporting on a death by suicide, it is crucial to provide resources for those who may be struggling. If you or someone you know is in crisis or having suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. The following resources are available 24/7:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 to connect with trained crisis counselors
- Crisis text line: Text MN to 741741
- Veterans crisis line: Call 988 and press 1, or text 838255
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests that if you believe someone is at immediate risk, you should not leave them alone, ask directly about suicidal thoughts, remove potential means of harm, and seek immediate help from a medical professional or by calling 988.
Our hearts go out to the family and all those affected by this tragic loss.
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