Samuel Kelly Lewer Obituary, Death; A tragic motorcycle crash just a few blocks from the Minnesota State Fairgrounds late Thursday night claimed one life and left another person injured.
The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. when, according to the Minnesota State Patrol, a Yamaha motorcycle traveling north on Snelling Avenue/Highway 51 collided with a Volkswagen Touareg that was making an eastbound turn onto Garden Avenue in Falcon Heights.
Authorities identified the motorcyclist as 27-year-old Samuel Kelly Lewer, a resident of Coon Rapids. He was pronounced dead at the scene after the collision. A 25-year-old woman, who was riding as a passenger on the motorcycle, also sustained injuries in the crash. State Patrol officials said her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, and she is expected to recover.
The driver of the Volkswagen was not injured in the crash. No further details have been released about the driver, and police have not indicated whether charges or citations will be issued.
Investigators are still working to determine the full circumstances that led to the collision. At this stage, officials have not confirmed factors such as speed, impairment, or distracted driving. However, one significant detail noted by authorities is that neither Lewer nor his passenger was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Safety experts frequently emphasize that helmet use dramatically reduces the risk of fatal head injuries in motorcycle crashes, making this a key point of concern.
The crash has drawn attention because of its proximity to the State Fairgrounds, where thousands of visitors gather daily during the fair. Snelling Avenue, in particular, is one of the main thoroughfares near the event, creating heavy traffic and increased risks for both drivers and riders. While the fair was ongoing at the time of the accident, police have not said whether fair-related congestion or traffic played a role.
Motorcycle crashes remain a significant safety issue in Minnesota. According to statewide crash data, riders are disproportionately affected in fatal collisions compared to drivers of other vehicles, often due to the lack of protective barriers and safety equipment. Officials stress that helmets, protective clothing, and safe riding practices are critical to reducing risks on the road.
The death of Samuel Kelly Lewer adds to the sobering statistics and serves as a reminder of the dangers motorcyclists face, especially at intersections where visibility and right-of-way decisions are crucial. His passenger’s survival, despite injuries, underscores both the severity of the crash and the importance of immediate emergency response.
The Minnesota State Patrol has asked for patience as the investigation continues. Crash reconstruction experts are expected to analyze the scene and review evidence to determine the exact chain of events.
For now, Falcon Heights residents and fairgoers alike are left unsettled by the tragedy so close to one of the state’s largest annual gatherings. As the investigation moves forward, authorities are urging both motorists and motorcyclists to remain alert and practice safe driving habits to prevent future tragedies.
