A 42‑year‑old Des Moines businessman, Walter E. Lauridsen II, died after being hit by a vehicle on Highway 34 in Lucas County Thursday night. The crash occurred near the intersection of Highway 34 and 127th Avenue, about 10 miles west of Chariton.
According to KCCI, the Iowa State Patrol reported the incident happened at approximately 8:20 p.m. when an eastbound SUV moved into the westbound lane to pass a parked vehicle. Lauridsen, who had exited his car, stepped into the westbound lane and was struck. KCRG’s report places the collision at 8:21 p.m., a half‑mile east of 127th Avenue, and describes Lauridsen’s vehicle as a Mercedes‑Benz parked on the roadside. Both reports say he was pronounced dead at the scene and that no other injuries were reported.
The Lauridsen family released a statement through Wixted & Company, describing Walter as a “beloved son, brother, father, and friend” who was known for his work with Harvest Academy and Character Counts. The family asked for prayers and privacy as they arrange funeral services.
Political leaders quickly expressed sympathy. Governor Kim Reynolds said she was “deeply saddened” and recalled conversations about “second chances and helping people build better lives.” Rob Sand’s campaign confirmed Lauridsen was Sand’s brother‑in‑law. Republican gubernatorial candidate Zach Lahn observed a moment of silence at a Storm Lake campaign event and posted on X that “we join all Iowans in praying for Rob, Christine, and their whole family.” U.S. Senate candidates, including Josh Turek, Ashley Hinson, Zach Nunn, Sarah Trone Garriott, and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, also posted messages of condolence.
KCCI noted that the crash adds to a grim statewide toll: 225 people have died on Iowa roads so far this year, including 20 pedestrians, which is eight more than the same point in 2025. Over the past five years, an average of 337 people have been killed annually in Iowa traffic incidents.
The Iowa State Patrol continues to investigate the crash. No charges have been announced, and authorities have asked anyone with additional information to contact law enforcement.
Sources: kcci.com, ktiv.com, radioiowa.com, kcrg.com
