LUCAS COUNTY, Iowa —
A Des Moines man has died after being struck by a vehicle Thursday night in southern Iowa.
According to a report from the Iowa State Patrol, the crash happened around 8:20 p.m. on Highway 34 near 127th Avenue in Lucas County, about 10 miles west of Chariton.
The driver of an eastbound SUV moved into the westbound lane to pass a vehicle parked on the side of the highway. The driver of the parked vehicle, identified as Walter E. Lauridsen II of Des Moines, walked into the westbound lane and was struck by the passing SUV.
Lauridsen, 42, was pronounced dead at the scene. A spokesperson for governor candidate Rob Sand’s campaign confirmed to KCCI that Lauridsen is Sand’s brother-in-law.
No other injuries were reported.
The crash remains under investigation.
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According to the latest data from the Iowa Department of Transportation, 225 people have died so far this year on Iowa roads, including 20 pedestrians. That total number is 8 more than at the same point in 2025. Over the last five years, an average of 337 people have been killed in statewide crashes annually.
Statement from Lauridsen family
Wixted & Company provided the following statement from the Lauridsen family:
We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Walter, who died last night. This is an extremely sad and devastating time for all who knew and loved him.
Walter was a beloved son, brother, father, and friend to many. His commitment to giving back and making our community a better place will continue to live on through the countless people he touched with Harvest Academy and Character Counts.
Walter lived with mental health complexities. While this is a difficult and painful time for all of us, we know he is now at peace. As we begin the difficult task of making funeral arrangements, we ask that you keep all of us in your prayers and respect our privacy as we grieve. We will share additional information when plans are finalized.