The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Blake Unger, 18, from Bluffton, passed away at the scene on May 27.
The accident occurred around 10:45 p.m., roughly five miles north of Wadena.
Blake had just finished high school at New York Mills and was a recent graduate, according to a statement shared by school superintendent Adam Johnson on Facebook.
Blake Unger also played on the varsity football team. He wore jersey number 62 and had been part of the team since his sophomore year.
Similarly, an 18-year-old Izak Schermerhorn from New York Mills is being investigated for driving under the influence after a crash that led to the death of a passenger in his car late last night.
The car rolled onto its side near the intersection of 370th Street and 640th Avenue.
Schermerhorn was later found and taken into custody on suspicion of driving while intoxicated.
He is currently being held at the Otter Tail County Jail and is facing several charges, including criminal vehicular homicide, fourth-degree DWI, and underage drinking and driving.
Family And Friends Mourn The Loss Of Blake Unger
Family member Breanna Unger shared that Blake’s parents, Lynn Unger and Randy, are inviting everyone to come together to honor the life of their beloved son, who passed away far too soon.
While the obituary is still being finalized, the family wanted to share the information early so that people have time to make arrangements.
With very heavy hearts, Lynn Unger and Randy invites you to join us in honoring the life of their beloved Blake who left us far too soon.
Breanna Unger
Funeral information is in the picture and a link to the obituary in the comments. The obituary is still in process of fully being created, but the family wanted to get something out there so people have time to plan accordingly
Blake touched so many lives with his kindness, laughter, and huge heart. We welcome all who knew and loved him to come and celebrate the beautiful life he lived.
Please continue to keep Lynn, Randy, Cameron, Mason, and family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. 💙
This post has been made public, so please feel free to share and help get the word out
Further, the New York Mills Football shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, remembering a decisive moment from a past game: overtime, fourth down, as Breckenridge dropped back to pass and Blake Unger intercepted the ball.
That play sealed a 20-14 overtime victory for New York Mills, a moment of pride and celebration that the team and community would never forget.
Overtime. 4th down. Breckenridge drops back to pass. Throws over the middle of the field… INTERCEPTED BY BLAKE UNGER. New York
New York Mills Football
Mills defeats Breckenridge in overtime, 20-14.
Moments like these stay with us forever.
Today, we are shattered to learn of the passing of one of our own. A teammate, a friend, a brother.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, teammates, and the entire New York Mills community during this incredibly difficult time.
Once an Eagle, always an Eagle
Rest in Peace, Blake Unger!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In his final year of high school, Blake played as part of the 2024 senior team. The team finished its season with a 4-6 overall record and a 3-4 conference record, placing them 5th in their conference.
- On a memorable Senior Night, Blake Unger achieved his 100th career wrestling win, celebrating years of hard work, dedication, and leadership in the New York Mills wrestling program.
