Minnesota State Trooper Mollie McClure Dies Off-Duty South Dakota Lake

Trooper Mollie McClure of the Minnesota State Patrol tragically drowned on June 29 while swimming off duty in Waubay Lake, South Dakota. Despite immediate search efforts, severe weather delayed recovery until the following morning, and no criminal charges have been filed as the investigation continues. McClure, who joined the State Patrol in 2021, was highly respected for her professionalism, compassion, and dedication, contributing to training cadets, serving as a peer counselor, and supporting initiatives to increase female troopers. She became nationally known in 2023 after a viral video showed her rescuing a baby deer trapped in a fence. The Minnesota State Patrol and Day County Sheriff’s Office expressed deep condolences and emphasized the significant positive impact she had on her community and colleagues. Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time.