Driver dies after striking former McDonald's building in northern Minnesota

A pickup driver died after striking a former McDonald's building in northern Minnesota on Friday morning.

The St. Louis County Sheriff's Office says the crash was reported at 11:42 a.m. at 101 Highway 53 in the City of Cook, with a 911 caller reporting a pickup truck had left the road and struck the building just off the highway.

Witnesses said the man behind the wheel was unresponsive, and broke a window to pull him out before starting CPR.

Paramedics then arrived at the scene and continued lifesaving measures, but the man was pronounced dead before he could be taken to a hospital.

The victim is a 51-year-old man from Nett Lake, Minnesota.

"A witness stated the vehicle drifted off the highway at lower speeds then crashed into the building coming to a complete stop," the St. Louis County Sheriff's Office. "Through on scene investigation, it appears the male had a medical emergency prior to crashing. Alcohol was not a factor."

The investigation is ongoing, with the man's identity to be released when his family has been notified.

Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement's latest version of events, and may be subject to change.

This story was originally published by Bring Me The News on Nov 7, 2026, where it first appeared in the MN News section. Add Bring Me The News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.