Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Identifies Conservation Officer Killed in the Line of Duty Monday Morning

(KNSI) – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is identifying the Conservation Officer who died in the line of duty Monday morning.

They say 39-year-old Officer Sarah Grell was killed in a two vehicle crash near Grand Rapids. Details surrounding the crash were not immediately released. The Minnesota State Patrol is investigating.

Grell leaves behind a husband, Gene Grell, who works in the DNR’s Forestry Division, and their three kids.

Grell comes from a line of conservation officers as her uncle, father, and grandfather all served. Grell’s mother was with the DNR’s Fisheries Division until she retired.

Sarah Grell had been with the Minnesota DNR since 2005. A press release says Grell had “a deeply held dedication to serving Minnesota’s people and natural resources.” Commissioner Sarah Strommen says the sense of loss is “indescribable,” adding, “We are heartbroken for her family. Our deepest sympathies and concerns are with them. Officer Grell leaves behind an incredible legacy of service to Minnesota’s people and natural resources.”

“Officer Grell was the epitome of a public servant and served the Enforcement Division, the DNR, and the people of Minnesota with distinction,” said Col. Rodmen Smith, DNR Enforcement Division director. “Her loss is devastating, and we ask the people of Minnesota to keep Officer Grell and her family in their thoughts during this difficult time.”

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also issued a statement on Grell’s passing, adding, “Gwen and I extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Officer Sarah Grell, especially her husband, DNR Forester Gene Grell, and their children. We are grateful for her service and the service of all our Conservation Officers who make our state a great place to live. My ask of Minnesotans is that the next time you meet a Conservation Officer as you enjoy Minnesota’s public lands and waters, remember Officer Grell and thank that officer for their work.”

Governor Walz will direct all United States flags and Minnesota flags to be flown at half-staff at all state and federal buildings in the State of Minnesota on the day of Officer Sarah Grell’s interment, to be announced at a forthcoming date.

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