Andrew Bixby Obituary, Death – Authorities in Otter Tail County have identified the individual who lost his life in an early-morning roadway incident on Wednesday. According to a statement from the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office, the victim has been identified as 24-year-old Andrew Bixby of New York Mills, Minnesota.
The incident occurred during the early hours along County Highway 67, a rural stretch of road located just outside the town limits. Officials say Bixby had been walking along the roadway when he was struck by a passing pickup truck driven by another man from New York Mills.
Deputies and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene shortly after the report came in. Upon arrival, they found that Bixby had sustained fatal injuries as a result of the collision. Sadly, he was pronounced deceased at the scene despite life-saving efforts.
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the pickup remained at the site of the incident and fully cooperated with law enforcement throughout the initial investigation. The driver’s name has not been released publicly. Investigators say there are currently no signs of criminal intent or impaired driving, but the case remains open while evidence is reviewed.
The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Minnesota State Patrol and local first responders, has launched a full inquiry to determine what led to the tragic event. They are working to reconstruct the sequence of events by analyzing road conditions, visibility, lighting, and vehicle data. The goal is to establish a clear timeline and understand whether any contributing factors—such as low visibility or other environmental conditions—played a role.
Authorities noted that incidents involving pedestrians on rural highways can be particularly dangerous due to limited street lighting and narrow shoulders. “These roads can be challenging at night or during early morning hours when visibility is poor,” a sheriff’s spokesperson said. “Even with headlights, it can be difficult for drivers to see someone walking near the roadway.”
The crash remains under investigation, and officials are urging anyone who may have been traveling through the area around the time of the incident to contact the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office if they have any relevant information.
Residents of New York Mills expressed sadness upon hearing of the loss. The small, close-knit community has been shaken by the tragedy, with several neighbors and friends of the victim’s family sharing condolences online. “It’s heartbreaking. Andrew was so young and had his whole life ahead of him,” one community member said.
Authorities have not yet determined whether the pedestrian was walking on the shoulder or attempting to cross the roadway when the incident occurred. Such details are expected to become clearer once investigators analyze scene photographs, skid marks, and any available dash camera footage.
In the meantime, local law enforcement is reminding drivers to stay alert, particularly during nighttime or early-morning hours when pedestrians may be harder to see. They also encourage pedestrians to wear reflective clothing and, when possible, walk facing traffic on rural roads to increase visibility.
The Sheriff’s Office extended condolences to Bixby’s family, saying their thoughts are with them as they navigate this difficult time. Officials described the event as “a deeply unfortunate accident” and emphasized that all findings from the ongoing investigation will be handled with care and transparency.
County Highway 67 was temporarily closed following the incident while investigators examined the scene and cleared the roadway. It has since been reopened to traffic.
As of Wednesday afternoon, no further details have been released about the investigation’s progress. The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office said additional updates will be shared as soon as more information becomes available.
The loss of Andrew Bixby, just 24 years old, has left a lasting impact on the New York Mills community. Friends and family have begun honoring his memory, describing him as a kind, hardworking, and good-natured young man who was deeply connected to those around him. Law enforcement officials continue to review the case, aiming to bring clarity and closure to all those affected.
