James Schlosser Killed in Alexandria Motorcycle Accident
The 65-year-old rider died following a crash at County Road 45 and Lakota Drive Southwest
James Schlosser, 65, of Alexandria, was killed in a crash between a motorcycle and a pickup truck on County Road 45 near Lakota Drive Southwest in Douglas County on Thursday, according to the Sheriff's Office.
The collision involved a pickup truck operated by a 16-year-old boy and a motorcycle driven by Schlosser. A nearby North Memorial Ambulance crew arrived at the intersection within minutes of the dispatch call.
Paramedics transported Schlosser to Alomere Health Hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The teenager's condition was not immediately released.
Douglas County deputies and Alexandria police secured the scene. The Minnesota State Patrol is assisting with the crash reconstruction.
The sudden loss has deeply impacted the Alexandria community as investigators work to determine the sequence of events.
The crash remains under investigation.
What factors are investigators examining on County Road 45?
The sudden loss of a loved one leaves families searching for answers, especially when a routine ride ends in tragedy.
As the Alexandria community mourns, investigators will examine right-of-way rules, vehicle speeds, and sightlines at the intersection to determine exactly how the two vehicles collided.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "Motorcycles are far less visible than other vehicles at intersections, and when a driver misjudges speed or distance even briefly, the consequences for a rider can prove fatal."
"An attorney working with affected families after such collisions will typically pursue traffic signal data, roadway geometry assessments, and any footage from nearby cameras to build a reliable reconstruction that stands up well against insurance company pressure," added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.
Minnesota motorcycle deaths have more than doubled in 2026 compared to the same period last year, with 32 riders killed as of mid‑June, up from 14 at this point in 2025, according to the Department of Public Safety.
Officials say the state is on pace for about 65 deaths this year, a sharp increase but still below the 2022 record high of 82.
What are the legal options for surviving families?
While the State Patrol reconstructs the collision involving the teenage driver, understanding the legal framework is important for surviving relatives navigating the aftermath of a fatal crash.
Individuals involved in fatal motorcycle accidents may have legal options. Consulting a personal injury attorney can help clarify rights and potential claims.
Minnesota wrongful death statute
Under Minn. Stat. § 573.02, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Minnesota applies modified comparative fault (51% bar). The statute of limitations is 3 years.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship and guidance, funeral expenses, and the estate's losses.
"Legal counsel frequently encounters families who waited too long to explore wrongful death options, only to find important filing deadlines had passed. Understanding the procedural requirements early gives surviving relatives the opportunity to make informed decisions before critical windows close," explained Stefano Formica, a national legal analyst for Accident News and of counsel at Bond Legal.