On the quiet afternoon of August 10, 2025, a devastating crash shattered the peace near Frederic, Wisconsin. At approximately 3:13 p.m., emergency responders rushed to the scene of a violent collision between a motorcycle and a truck hauling a trailer on County Highway I, close to the intersection of 90th Street.
**The Incident Unfolds
According to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and the Wisconsin State Patrol, the motorcycle had just turned south onto County Highway I from 90th Street. At the same time, a northbound truck was navigating a curve when tragedy struck: the trailer it was towing lost control, tipping over and veering into the southbound lane. In a horrifying instant, the trailer collided with the motorcycle, leaving no chance for the rider to escape.
**A Life Lost
The motorcyclist, identified as 70-year-old Rodney Bodell of Rush City, Minnesota, was pronounced dead at the scene. Bodell, a seasoned rider and beloved member of his community, was on a routine ride that turned fatal in a matter of seconds. His passing has left a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him.
**Ongoing Investigation
The Wisconsin State Patrol has launched a full investigation into the crash. Authorities are examining the mechanical condition of the truck and trailer, the road layout, and any contributing environmental factors. Eyewitness accounts and surveillance footage from nearby properties are being reviewed to piece together the final moments leading to the collision.
**A Stark Reminder
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of road travel and the importance of vehicle safety, especially when hauling heavy loads. As the community mourns the loss of Rodney Bodell, officials urge drivers to exercise caution, particularly on rural highways where curves and narrow lanes can quickly become deadly.
Rodney’s legacy as a kind-hearted Minnesotan and passionate motorcyclist lives on, even as Polk County grapples with the aftermath of this heartbreaking accident.