November 27, 2025
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Suicide investigation closes eastbound Hwy 36

Minnesota State Patrol says a man died by suicide around 4:52 p.m. near Highway 36 and Highlands Trail North in Lake Elmo, leading authorities to close eastbound Hwy 36 between I-694 in Pine Springs and Demontreville Trail North. MnDOT said the closure was expected to last into the evening with an estimated reopening around 10:19 p.m.; details on involvement of other vehicles were not immediately available.

Public Safety Transit & Infrastructure

📌 Key Facts

  • MSP confirms a fatality by suicide at about 4:52 p.m. near Hwy 36 & Highlands Trail N in Lake Elmo
  • Eastbound Hwy 36 closed between I-694 (Pine Springs) and Demontreville Trail N
  • MnDOT estimated reopening around 10:19 p.m.; investigation ongoing and no other vehicle details yet

📊 Relevant Data

In 2023, there were 379 firearm suicides in Minnesota out of 815 total suicides, accounting for approximately 46% of all suicides.

The Topline: More guns, more death — Minnesota Reformer

Historically, men account for about 80% of all suicide deaths in Minnesota.

Preventable deaths by suicide declined in 2023 — MN Dept. of Health

Historically, white males account for about 80% of the suicide deaths by firearm in Minnesota.

Preventable deaths by suicide declined in 2023 — MN Dept. of Health

Suicide attempts using firearms have a case fatality rate of 89.7%, compared to lower rates for other methods, which may contribute to higher male suicide rates as men are more likely to choose lethal methods like firearms.

The lethality of suicide methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis — Journal of Affective Disorders

Between 2019 and 2023, most rural counties in Minnesota exhibited a suicide rate that was 59% higher than that of the Twin Cities.

Suicide rate in Minnesota remains below record highs for second year — MPR News

Higher suicide rates in rural areas of Minnesota are associated with socioeconomic factors, limited access to mental health resources, and higher rates of gun ownership.

Gun violence deaths in Minnesota rise in 2024; rural suicide disparity persists — InForum

📰 Sources (1)

Lake Elmo crash closes eastbound lanes of Highway 36
FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul November 27, 2025