A semitrailer truck north of the metro area struck a woman crossing the interstate, killing the pedestrian in what authorities suspect was an intentional act.

The incident happened a few miles south of Rush City at about 6:50 p.m. Monday on northbound Interstate 35, according to the State Patrol.

Killed was 18-year-old Holly M. Bekkala, of Calumet, in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the patrol said.

Bekkala left her vehicle at a nearby rest stop and walked toward the interstate, said Patrol Lt. Eric Roeske. Evidence collected by the patrol indicates that she meant to step into the path of the truck, Roeske said.

The driver of the semi, Andrew A. Larabee, 53, of Kakabeka Falls, Ontario, was not injured, the patrol said.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482