Minnesota Honors Fallen Trooper Mollie McClure with Special Proclamation

Waubay Lake, South Dakota - The state of Minnesota is grieving the untimely loss of Trooper Mollie McClure, who tragically drowned in an off-duty accident on June 29 at Waubay Lake, South Dakota, just 25 miles from the Minnesota border. The circumstances of her passing were devastating; McClure, 33, went missing after jumping off a boat to swim, with her body recovered by authorities early the next morning. Investigators are currently looking into the reasons behind her inability to stay above water, although no criminal charges have been filed in connection with the incident. The Minnesota State Patrol has expressed deep condolences to her family and friends during this difficult time.

Mollie McClure was remembered fondly for her nearly four years of dedicated service. A proclamation was made by Governor Tim Walz, declaring Tuesday as Trooper Mollie McClure Day, acknowledging her professionalism and compassion as she mentored many fellow troopers. She was known for her presence at recruiting events and her notable role in supporting female cadets, which significantly contributed to increasing the number of women in the patrol. In 2023, she even gained viral fame through a bodycam video that showed her rescuing a fawn. The news outlet highlighted just how much McClure was admired within the community of St. Cloud, where she was stationed after graduating from the Minnesota State Patrol Academy in October 2021.

Life and Legacy

Born on June 10, 1992, in Worthington, Minnesota, Mollie’s early life revolved around family and nature. Her love for the outdoors was evident in her hobbies, which included hunting, fishing, and hiking. Raised on a family farm in Sioux Valley and later attending school in Jackson County, she graduated in 2010 before pursuing further studies at the University of Minnesota. Graduating in 2015 with a major in Physiology and a minor in Spanish, McClure demonstrated an aptitude for both academic and community engagement. After starting her career at State Farm Insurance, she transitioned into law enforcement with the Minnesota Department of Corrections in 2018 before joining the State Patrol. Her family has expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the Minnesota State Patrol for their support during this tough time.

Memorial plans for McClure have been established, with a public visitation scheduled for July 7 at Jackson County Central High School and a funeral service to take place on July 8 at 11:00 a.m. Inside, those who knew her can share their love and stories, with a time for reflection starting one hour prior. In honor of her legacy, family members have indicated that memorials can be made to the University of Minnesota Center for Lung Science and Health Fund, contributing to causes she believed in deeply.

A Community in Mourning

The community is coming together not only to celebrate McClure’s life but also to recognize the gap her absence leaves behind. Her legacy as a mentor and friend resonates strongly with peers and cadets alike. As the Minnesota State Patrol mourns her loss, they continue to provide support and privacy for her family during this incredibly challenging time. The tragic nature of her death is compounded by the recent loss of another dedicated member of law enforcement, as the investigation continues into the drowning of Beverly Rodriguez, a sergeant with Minnesota’s Metro Transit Police Department.

In a world where the demands of serving and protecting can often be overshadowed by personal safety, Trooper Mollie McClure stood as a beacon of hope. Her family, friends, and the community at large now face the arduous task of moving forward while cherishing the memory of a life well-lived.