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The family of Jack Loso, the Minnesota State University, Mankato student who died in a landslide at Minneopa State Park in December 2023, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 

Joe Heegaard of Storms Dworak LLC, one of the attorneys representing the Loso family, filed the lawsuit last week. He said the family is seeking compensation from the DNR for the “severe emotional distress,” caused to Jack’s sister and cousin, according to the complaint. 

“We’re optimistic that we can find a just and speedy resolution that’s agreeable to all the parties,” Heegaard said.

Jack Loso was 19 when he died on Dec. 2, 2023. According to the complaint he visited the lower falls with two family members and followed marked paths and signs.

While on the trail a landslide crushed Loso, leaving his body buried under the debris. 

The lawsuit alleges the DNR made a trail leading people to a known hazardous area where the geology was susceptible to landslides, and put up signs encouraging them to use the trail. There were no warnings about the dangers of that area. 

Heegaard added the state agency has documented past rockslides at the lower falls.

“So in establishing these artificial features, which led Jack to this area, that’s where the liability attaches because people should be able to trust that when they go into nature the state isn’t going to be leading them into harm’s way,”  he said. 

The Minnesota DNR declined to comment because of the pending litigation but issued a short  statement, “Our thoughts and condolences continue to be with the family and loved ones of Jack Loso following this tragic loss.”

Typically, parties have 21 days within filing to respond to the civil suit. 

Hannah Yang

Author

The family of Jack Loso, the Minnesota State University, Mankato student who died in a landslide at Minneopa State Park in December 2023, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 


Family of MSU Mankato student killed in landslide at Minneopa State Park sues DNR

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