Eric John Spaeth Obituary, Death – 44-Year-Old Long Prairie Man Killed in Morrison County UTV Crash
Eric John Spaeth, 44, of Long Prairie, Minnesota, died on Sunday evening, October 25, 2026, following a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) rollover crash in Morrison County. His sudden death has brought sadness to those who knew him, as details of the fatal accident emerged from the Minnesota State Patrol.
The crash occurred on Highway 28 in Culdrum Township, just north of 20th Avenue, at approximately 7:52 p.m. Spaeth was driving a 2025 Polaris Ranger XD northbound when the vehicle left the roadway while negotiating a curve and overturned.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the UTV veered off the road to the right, struck a driveway approach and rolled over. Both occupants were ejected from the vehicle during the crash.
Spaeth sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead following the incident. His passenger, Nicole Lea Spaeth, 45, also of Long Prairie, suffered life-threatening injuries and was transported to St. Gabriel’s Hospital for medical treatment.
Details of the Fatal Morrison County Crash
The Minnesota State Patrol reported that the crash happened as the UTV approached a left-hand curve on Highway 28. After leaving the roadway and striking the driveway approach, the vehicle rolled over, throwing both occupants from their seats.
Investigators noted that neither Spaeth nor his passenger was wearing a seat belt or helmet at the time of the crash. Road conditions were reported as dry, while the question of possible alcohol involvement remained pending in the initial report.
Emergency assistance came from several local agencies, including Swanville First Responders, Swanville Fire, Mayo Ambulance and the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office.
Remembering Eric John Spaeth
Eric was 44 years old and lived in Long Prairie, Minnesota. His death in the sudden UTV accident has left a painful loss for those who knew him and for everyone affected by the tragedy.
While the available accident report provides details about the circumstances of the crash, it does not include information about Eric’s family, career, personal interests or the many experiences that shaped his life. Those details remain private unless shared by his loved ones.
His passenger, Nicole Lea Spaeth, also remains in the thoughts of those following the incident as she receives care for her serious injuries.
Funeral and Memorial Arrangements
Information regarding Eric John Spaeth’s funeral service, visitation or memorial arrangements has not been provided. Further details may be announced by his family at a later time.
As loved ones come to terms with his unexpected death, thoughts remain with everyone affected by the tragedy. Eric John Spaeth will be remembered by those whose lives were connected to his.
May he rest in peace.