David Allen Hofstader Obituary, Death; Driver dies in Highway 55 crash involving two semis in Meeker County
David Allen Hofstader Obituary, Death – A fatal crash involving two semi-trucks in Meeker County claimed the life of a driver Friday, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The collision occurred on Highway 55, a route frequently traveled by both passenger vehicles and commercial trucks.
Authorities reported that the incident unfolded when one Kenworth semi-truck stopped in the eastbound lane of Highway 55. The driver had come to a halt while waiting to make a left-hand turn into a driveway. As the truck remained stationary, another Kenworth semi traveling in the same direction collided with the rear of the stopped vehicle.
The force of the impact proved deadly for one of the drivers. Officials identified the victim as 57-year-old David Allen Hofstader. Despite the quick response from emergency personnel, Hofstader died from injuries sustained in the crash. His death underscores the risks faced by truck drivers who often spend long hours navigating busy highways where even a moment’s misjudgment can result in tragedy.
The second driver, identified only as a 73-year-old man from Eden Valley, was not injured in the collision. Authorities confirmed that he did not require medical treatment and was released from the scene after cooperating with investigators.
The Minnesota State Patrol has launched a formal investigation into the crash. They are reviewing all possible contributing factors, including road conditions, driver attentiveness, speed, and whether any mechanical issues may have played a role. Rear-end collisions involving semis can be particularly devastating given the size and weight of the vehicles, and investigators are working to piece together the exact sequence of events that led to Friday’s fatal outcome.
Highway 55 in Meeker County is a heavily used roadway connecting several communities in the region. Accidents on this stretch are not uncommon, and authorities frequently remind drivers—both commercial and non-commercial—about the importance of maintaining safe following distances and being prepared for sudden stops. In this case, investigators noted that one semi had clearly stopped for a legal turn, raising questions about whether visibility, distraction, or speed may have prevented the second driver from avoiding the collision.
The loss of Hofstader has had an immediate impact on his family and community. At 57 years old, he was an experienced driver, and his death is being mourned by those who knew him personally as well as by fellow truckers who understand the dangers of the profession. Long-haul and regional truck driving often place operators in high-risk situations where road conditions, traffic patterns, and heavy vehicle loads combine to create challenges with little margin for error.
The crash also highlights broader safety issues surrounding commercial trucking. Because of their size, semi-trucks require significantly more time and distance to stop compared to passenger cars, and when collisions occur, the outcomes are often severe. Safety experts stress that vigilance and defensive driving are critical for all motorists sharing the road with large trucks.
As the investigation continues, the Minnesota State Patrol is expected to release additional findings in the coming days. For now, one family grieves the loss of a loved one, while the incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers on Minnesota’s highways.
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