More than 40 motorcycle riders have lost their lives on Minnesota roads so far this year, compared to 29 at this time last year. The Department of Public Safety says at least 11 motorcyclists died in August -- the deadliest month of the year. Officials note ridership is at record levels because of the cost of fuel.

Twenty-three pedestrians have been killed so far by vehicles in 2012, making it the deadliest year in the last five, the Star Tribune reports. Among the latest victims was Cléo Thiberge, a 19-year-old college student from France who had just arrived in the Twin Cities when she was struck by a vehicle in St. Paul.

A trio of urban county sheriffs are warning of a sharp increase in the number of heroin-related deaths. The sheriffs from Hennepin, Anoka and Ramsey counties are planning to speak to reporters about the problem Thursday.

KARE 11 reports 17 motorcycle riders have died on Minnesota roads so far this year. That's compared to 10 this time last year. The Department of Public Safety hopes a safety campaign reminds motorists to "look twice" for motorcyclists.

The 2012 figure is on pace with the 204 deaths at this time in 2011, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. This year's 205 deaths include four bicyclist, 29 motorcyclists and 18 pedestrians.

A 17-year-old boy from Sauk Rapids was charged Tuesday in connection to the death of Mankato state student Colton Gleason. The St. Cloud Times reports Jesse Jean Smithers is charged with second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter and first-degree assault.