Squad Car Hits Pedestrian

A Bemidji Police Department officer struck a pedestrian with a squad car early Wednesday while driving to conduct follow-up on a previous case. Police say the crash happened around 1:07 a.m. July 15, 2026, as the officer was traveling northbound on Irvine Avenue. Authorities say the pedestrian, wearing all black, was standing in the middle of the roadway when the collision occurred. The officer and other responding officers immediately rendered aid. The 36-year-old pedestrian was transported to Sanford Hospital for treatment of injuries. The Minnesota State Patrol is handling the investigation, which remains ongoing.