Rodney Bodell Obituary, Death – A fatal crash in Polk County on Sunday afternoon claimed the life of a Minnesota man after his motorcycle collided with a truck pulling a trailer. According to a press release from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Wisconsin State Patrol, the incident occurred on August 10, 2025, at approximately 3:13 p.m. The collision took place on County Highway I near the intersection with 90th Street, close to the town of Frederic, Wisconsin.
When law enforcement officers and emergency responders arrived, they found that the driver of the motorcycle had died as a result of the crash. He was identified as 70-year-old Rodney Bodell of Rush City, Minnesota. Despite the rapid response from authorities, Bodell was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators said preliminary findings indicate the crash happened as Bodell’s motorcycle was turning south onto County Highway I from 90th Street. At the same time, a northbound truck towing a trailer was navigating a curve in the road. The trailer reportedly tipped over during the turn, crossing into the southbound lane. It struck Bodell, leading to the fatal collision.
The exact cause of the trailer’s overturn is still under review, but factors such as speed, road conditions, and load stability are expected to be part of the investigation. Officials have not released the name of the truck driver, and no additional injuries have been reported from the incident.
The stretch of roadway where the crash occurred is a rural route known for curves and varying speed zones. Accidents in such areas can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, who are more vulnerable to serious injury or death due to the lack of protection compared to enclosed vehicles.
The Wisconsin State Patrol has taken the lead in the investigation. Their process will include examining the condition of the trailer, inspecting the vehicles involved, and interviewing any witnesses to the crash. They will also assess whether mechanical failure, driver error, or environmental factors played a role.
The death of Rodney Bodell marks another serious motorcycle fatality in the region this year. Local authorities often use such incidents to remind drivers of the importance of caution when sharing the road with motorcycles, especially in rural areas where curves and narrow lanes can increase risks. For motorcyclists, the message is also one of defensive driving and wearing appropriate safety gear, although in severe crashes like this one, such measures may not be enough to prevent tragedy.
Bodell’s death leaves his family, friends, and community mourning the sudden loss. Known to reside in Rush City, Minnesota, his passing will be felt both in his hometown and by those who knew him across the region.
The Wisconsin State Patrol continues to urge anyone with information about the crash to come forward as the investigation remains ongoing. Their findings will ultimately determine whether any citations or charges are warranted in connection with the fatal collision.
