Drunk Driver’s Reckless Choice Kills Beloved Motorcyclist, Shocking Small Minnesota Town
A drunk driver is facing charges after causing a crash that killed a motorcyclist in Wadena County, Minnesota. 🌐 #News #WadenaMN #Minnesota #Crime
WADENA, MN – A Minnesota man is facing criminal charges after allegedly driving under the influence during a fatal collision that killed a motorcyclist in Wadena County. Rusell Ekholm, 52, of Staples, is charged with five counts, including criminal vehicular homicide, following the tragic crash that claimed the life of Keith Shultz, also 52, of Wadena.
The incident occurred near Thomastown Township, at the intersection of County Road 2 and 251st Avenue. According to authorities, the collision happened around 9:38 p.m. after Shultz rear-ended Ekholm’s pickup truck.
When first responders arrived, they found Shultz lying near his motorcycle, badly injured and without a helmet. A bystander, who initially thought Shultz was a bear due to his position on the road, rushed to assist him.
Unfortunately, Shultz was already in critical condition, bleeding profusely from his nose and gasping for breath. He was transported to Lakewood Hospital but tragically died from his injuries the following day.
Drunk Driving Shatters Another Family
This could’ve been avoided. It’s a heartbreaking reality. Shultz, a local man with a family, was out for a ride and never made it home. His life was stolen in the blink of an eye because someone couldn’t stay off the road after drinking.
The criminal complaint reveals that Ekholm had been drinking earlier that evening at his hunting shack before deciding to drive home. He reportedly told officers that a deer had jumped in front of his truck, causing him to brake suddenly before Shultz collided with the rear of his vehicle.
When questioned by police, Ekholm admitted to consuming alcohol earlier in the day. Officers noted the smell of alcohol and described his eyes as bloodshot and glassy. Ekholm’s breathalyzer test at the scene registered a blood alcohol content of .099, above Minnesota’s legal limit of .08.
Ekholm: “It Was Not My Fault”
After learning Shultz had passed, Ekholm reportedly said, “Now I have to live with that on my mind, and it was not my fault.”
In addition to the DUI, authorities conducted a search of Ekholm’s vehicle and discovered methamphetamine at the scene, further complicating his legal troubles.
Ekholm is currently free on $10,000 bail, awaiting further court proceedings. His actions ended a life and shattered a family. Keith Shultz was an innocent motorist who tragically crossed paths with a driver who should’ve known better. Let’s hope justice is served.
Rusell Ekholm mugshot courtesy Wadena County Jail.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
