Survey Worker Fatally Struck in New Market Township

Sep 9

A 44-year-old Minneapolis man was struck and killed while performing survey work along a road in New Market Township on Monday.

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were dispatched just before noon to the intersection of Texas Avenue and 230th Street East after a 911 caller reported a pedestrian had been hit.

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According to initial information, a 2025 Chevrolet Equinox was traveling north on Texas Avenue when the driver, a 58-year-old man from Lonsdale, hit the surveyor, identified as 44-year-old Joseph Tasa Norgaard. The driver was wearing a seat belt and was not hurt. Officials said there is no indication that drugs or alcohol were involved.

Several people stopped to render aid until first responders arrived, but Norgaard was pronounced dead at the scene. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner ruled the death an accident and said Norgaard died from multiple blunt force injuries.

“This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the victim’s family and loved ones,” said Sheriff Luke Hennen. “Whether it’s a pedestrian, a bicyclist, or someone working along the roadway, drivers must always remain alert and attentive to help prevent tragedies like this.”

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by Elko New Market police and fire, Northfield Ambulance and the Minnesota State Patrol. The Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office will identify the victim.

The crash remains under investigation by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, the Medical Examiner and the State Patrol.

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