How Did Iowa Governor Candidate Rob Sand's Brother-in-Law Die in a Highway 34 Crash?

Quick answer: Walter E. Lauridsen II, 42, of Des Moines, died in a crash on Highway 34 in Lucas County, Iowa, on Thursday night, 15 October 2026. He was the brother-in-law of Rob Sand, the Democratic candidate for Iowa governor. The crash happened just before 8:30 pm.

Key facts

• What: Fatal crash on Highway 34
• Where: Highway 34, Lucas County, Iowa, United States
• When: Just before 8:30 pm on Thursday 15 October 2026
• Toll: 1 dead
• Status: Reported by KTVO; Iowa State Patrol investigating

What happened

Lauridsen's car was parked on the side of Highway 34 in Lucas County, according to the Iowa State Patrol, as reported by KTVO.

An eastbound SUV driven by Nicholas C. Hunter, 66, of Des Moines, went into the westbound lane. Lauridsen died after being struck by a vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Lauridsen was a Des Moines businessman and philanthropist. Rob Sand's campaign confirmed that Lauridsen was Sand's brother-in-law, and Sand said the family was heartbroken by the loss.

What happens next

The Iowa State Patrol is investigating the crash, including the sequence of events on Highway 34 that evening. Further details are expected as the investigation proceeds.

Source: KTVO — https://www.ktvo.com/news/local/brother-in-law-of-iowa-governor-candidate-dies-in-crash-on-highway-34/article_d32755b7-b336-4f10-9750-2680cf1b6308.html

Frequently asked questions

Who died in the Highway 34 crash in Iowa?

Walter E. Lauridsen II, 42, of Des Moines, died in the crash on Highway 34 in Lucas County.

When did the crash happen?

Just before 8:30 pm on Thursday 15 October 2026.

How is Walter Lauridsen related to Rob Sand?

Lauridsen was the brother-in-law of Rob Sand, the Democratic candidate for Iowa governor, as confirmed by Sand's campaign.

What are investigators doing now?

The Iowa State Patrol is investigating the crash on Highway 34.