Rochester police responded to a report of a man lying beside a bicycle on a city bike path Thursday afternoon. The incident occurred near downtown Rochester, close to the former K‑Mart site at 513 3rd Ave SE, along the east bank of the South Fork of the Zumbro River.
Response and Findings
Communications Coordinator Amanda Grayson said officers arrived on the scene around 5 p.m. and found a 44‑year‑old male, later identified as Richard Mouneu of Minneapolis. First‑responders performed life‑saving measures, but Mouneu was pronounced dead at the location.
According to the police report, the investigation is still in its early stages. Grayson emphasized that there were no immediate indicators of criminal activity, and the case remains classified as a non‑suspicious death pending further review.
Community Impact
The bike path is a popular recreational corridor for cyclists, joggers, and families who enjoy the riverfront scenery. While the tragic loss has saddened local residents, city officials have reassured the public that the path will remain open while investigators continue their work.
Rochester’s public‑safety department encourages anyone with additional information to contact the police department’s tip line. They also remind the community of the importance of staying alert while using shared pathways, especially during low‑light hours.
Next Steps
Police will conduct a thorough review of surveillance footage from nearby businesses and request assistance from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension if needed. The department has not released a timeline for a formal press conference, but updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Residents who wish to honor the deceased or support local safety initiatives are invited to attend the upcoming community meeting scheduled for next week at Rochester City Hall. The meeting will address broader public‑safety concerns, including lighting improvements and emergency‑response training for volunteers.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
