Wayzata Police Officer Dan Lee is currently recovering after being struck by a motorist while riding his bicycle off duty, according to a report from the Wright County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon in St. Michael near County Road 19 and Birch Avenue. Officer Lee, 47, was transported to North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale following the collision.
Wayzata Police Officer Dan Lee. Image Courtesy Wayzata Crime Prevention Coalition.
He has since undergone multiple surgeries and had been in the intensive care unit.
Officer Lee, who has served with the Wayzata Police Department for 25 years, is described by colleagues as an invaluable member of the force.
“I can tell you that Dan has had a HUGE footprint in our day-to-day operation and our successes here at the Police Department,” said Wayzata Police Chief Marc Schultz. “He’s an integral part of our training unit, heads up our investigations unit and is very connected with our many partners in the community and throughout the metro through his many roles. He is a constant resource for our younger officers and a sounding board for many. His absence leaves big shoes to fill but I’m learning that his absence has also shown us how we can pull together as a team, not only for Dan and his family, but also to keep meeting the needs of our community. We at the City are all praying that he will recover quickly and be able to return to the job he loves.”
The Wayzata community has rallied behind Officer Lee and his family during this challenging time, with an outpouring of support and well-wishes according to Schultz.
Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the collision.
