The patient in an ambulance that collided with a moose near Ely this spring has died following a months-long battle with brain cancer, his family announced.
Paul Kess was on his way to the hospital when the ambulance carrying him collided with a bull moose on Highway 169 west of Ely on April 27. The incident was widely reported, with the Star Tribune adding that the ambulance personnel divided up the moose meat following the crash.
Kess had to be taken back to the Ely ER to wait for another ambulance while his condition worsened. He was eventually taken to St. Mary’s Medical Center in Duluth, where he suffered multiple seizures and had to be intubated.
Paul Kess and family.GoFundMe
An MRI revealed a mass on Kess’ brain, and he was later diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. A GoFundMe was created to support Kess, a former community college teacher and city council member, as he received treatment.
Kess underwent surgery but did not recover, according to the fundraiser. On July 13, Kess was taken back home to Ely to receive hospice care.
Kess died “peacefully with family by his side” on July 29, according to an update from his son.
“Thank you all for the caring words and support throughout this difficult time. All the acts of kindness we have received are greatly appreciated,” the update read.
This story was originally published by Bring Me The News on Jul 30, 2026, where it first appeared in the MN News section. Add Bring Me The News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.