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Updated: Brother-in-Law of Iowa Governor Candidate Killed In Accident

By Tom Robinson Oct 17, 2026 | 6:02 AM

(Des Moines) A car-pedestrian accident Thursday night in Lucas County has killed the brother-in-law of Iowa gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand.

The Iowa State Patrol says the accident happened at around 8:21 p.m. on Highway 34 east of 127^th Avenue. Authorities say 42-year-old Walter E. Lauridsen II of Des Moines died in the crash.

According to the report, an eastbound 2015 Honda Pilot driven by 66-year-old Nicholas Craig Hunter of Des Moines veered into the west lane to go around a parked 2019 Mercedes-Benz AMG and struck Lauridsen II, who was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Lucas County EMS transported Lauridsen to the State Medical Examiner’s Office.

At Western Iowa Today, we strive for reporting accuracy. If you see a mistake or a typo, please let us know by email to ksomnews@westerniowatoday.com
Story Content (c) 2026 Meredith Communications LC - All Rights Reserved.

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