A contractor working in a construction zone on Highway 610 in Maple Grove, Minnesota, died Thursday afternoon after being hit by a dump truck. The incident led to the closure of eastbound Highway 610 for several hours, causing significant traffic disruptions for commuters.
Key Takeaways
- A contractor was fatally struck by a dump truck on Highway 610.
- The incident occurred within a closed construction zone.
- Eastbound Highway 610 was closed for several hours after the crash.
- Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident.
Fatal Accident Closes Major Highway
The Minnesota State Patrol confirmed that the fatal crash happened just before 2 p.m. on Thursday. Troopers responded to the scene located within a construction zone on Highway 610 near Maple Grove Parkway. The contractor, who has not yet been identified, was on foot when the dump truck hit him. He died at the site of the accident.
According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), eastbound Highway 610 was closed between Interstate 94 and Maple Grove Parkway. The closure was expected to last until approximately 6 p.m. on Thursday. This area is currently undergoing active construction, which likely contributed to the traffic management challenges following the incident.
Incident Details
- Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
- Time: Just before 2 p.m. CDT
- Location: Highway 610 eastbound, Maple Grove, MN
- Victim: Unidentified contractor
- Vehicle Involved: Dump truck
- Road Closure: Eastbound Highway 610 (I-94 to Maple Grove Pkwy)
Traffic Impact and Road Conditions
The closure of eastbound Highway 610 caused a major backup in the surrounding area. Traffic cameras showed significant delays, affecting commuters during the late afternoon. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes and expect extended travel times. MnDOT's website provided updates on the road closure and estimated reopening time.
Initially, MnDOT's website indicated a closure on Interstate 94 eastbound due to a traffic incident. However, this information was updated around 3:25 p.m. to specify that Highway 610 was the affected roadway. This correction helped clarify the exact location of the incident for drivers.
"The safety of all workers in construction zones is paramount. Incidents like this highlight the serious risks faced by those building and maintaining our infrastructure."
Ongoing Investigation and Unanswered Questions
The Minnesota State Patrol is leading the investigation into the accident. As of the latest update, authorities have not released the identity of the contractor who was killed. The specific circumstances that led to the dump truck striking the contractor are also still unknown. Investigators are working to determine the full sequence of events.
Construction Zone Safety
Construction zones are inherently dangerous environments. Workers often operate close to heavy machinery and moving traffic, even in closed sections of roadways. Safety protocols, including clear signage, reduced speed limits, and strict operational procedures for equipment, are critical to prevent accidents.
No other vehicles were involved in the incident, which occurred entirely within the designated closed construction zone. This detail is a key part of the ongoing investigation. The State Patrol will examine all factors, including equipment operation, site conditions, and adherence to safety regulations.
Recent Construction Zone Fatalities
This incident marks the second fatal accident in a Minnesota construction zone within a short period. Just one day earlier, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Pierre Mack, a 29-year-old worker from St. Paul, was killed in a construction zone on Interstate 35W in Burnsville. In that incident, a construction truck with a boom was reportedly reversing when it struck Mack.
- Maple Grove Incident: Contractor on foot hit by dump truck.
- Burnsville Incident: Worker hit by reversing construction truck with a boom.
These recent fatalities underscore the critical need for enhanced safety measures and vigilance in all construction environments. Both incidents involve heavy equipment and workers on foot, highlighting common risks in these settings.
State Patrol as Primary Source
The Minnesota State Patrol serves as the primary source of information for these types of incidents. Their detailed reports are crucial for understanding the facts and for informing future safety improvements in construction zones across the state. The investigations aim to provide clarity and prevent similar tragedies.
The community awaits further details on the Maple Grove incident as the investigation continues. Updates are expected as authorities gather more information and identify the victim.
