Minnesota Man Killed by Falling Tree While Clearing Snow

Two Harbors, MN (MinnesotaNow) - The pre-Thanksgiving winter storm that delivered more than 10 inches of snow to the Duluth area and parts of the North Shore is being blamed for at least one death.

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office reports that deputies responded to a medical emergency around 10:20 a.m. today at a rural residence approximately five miles west of Two Harbors. A news release indicates a woman returned home to find her husband under a large downed tree.

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The victim, who was pronounced dead at the scene, has been identified as 69-year-old Brian Pelander.

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Heavy Snow and Strong Winds Blamed

According to the Sheriff’s Office, his wife had left their home about 45 minutes earlier while he was snowblowing their property. The news release says the weight of the heavy snow and the strong winds that accompanied the storm apparently caused the tree to fall while he was snowblowing near it.

Minnesota’s Longest Drive-Thru Light Show

The Kiwanis Holiday Light Display is free, but cash and non-perishable food donations are accepted. All money collected is given to area non-profits. Since opening in 2012 the event has raised nearly $800,000 for local charities.

Gallery Credit: troy dunken