Ripley Twp, MN (September 12, 2025) – Emergency responders from Camp Ripley Fire and Mayo Ambulance rushed to the scene after two motorcycles were involved in a serious crash during rainy weather conditions. The accident occurred around 12:54 p.m. on Thursday along Highway 115 at the intersection with Veterans Dr in Ripley Township, Morrison County.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, a group of motorcycles was traveling eastbound on Hwy 115 when the crash took place. As rain continued to fall, the rider of a 2023 Indian motorcycle lost control after hitting a pothole and sliding across slick railroad tracks. A 2018 BMW motorcycle, traveling directly behind, attempted to avoid the initial crash but also lost control due to the wet tracks.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. The driver and passenger of the BMW motorcycle, 63-year-old Donald Morgan Yates and 64-year-old Deanna E. Yates, both from Blue Mountain, MS, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. They were transported to St. Gabes Hospital for evaluation and treatment. Both were wearing helmets at the time of the crash. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor.
The driver of the Indian motorcycle, 41-year-old Brian James Ridgway of Brookfield, WI, was not injured and did not require hospitalization.
The roadway was wet at the time of the accident, and both motorcycles encountered difficulties crossing the railroad tracks under those conditions. The Minnesota State Patrol is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Our thoughts are with those injured as they recover from this incident.
Motorcycle Accidents in Minnesota
Motorcycle accidents in Minnesota often result in serious injuries, especially when environmental hazards such as potholes, rain, or slick railroad tracks are involved. In this Ripley Township crash, the combination of wet pavement and poor road surface conditions played a critical role in the sequence of events. The fact that both riders encountered the same hazard underscores how quickly conditions can deteriorate for motorcyclists, even at moderate speeds.
The involvement of out-of-state riders traveling together suggests this may have been a group ride through central Minnesota. Motorcycle touring groups frequently take scenic routes like Hwy 115, which runs near Camp Ripley and other rural landscapes. However, rural routes are often more vulnerable to weather and maintenance challenges, such as sudden potholes and unprotected rail crossings—both of which were contributing factors in Thursday’s crash.
This incident highlights a need for continued maintenance and signage improvements on roadways that experience regular motorcycle traffic. Riders and local transportation officials can both play a part in increasing safety: riders by adjusting their riding strategies in poor weather, and municipalities by ensuring infrastructure is responsive to evolving road hazards.
Anyone injured in a motorcycle crash should understand their rights and the steps they can take toward recovery. While the physical and emotional toll is immediate, it’s also important to seek guidance on possible medical and financial support options.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a motorcycle crash in Minnesota, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Connect with local support resources that can help you understand your path forward.
Have questions after an accident like this? At Local Accident Reports, we understand how difficult and confusing the days following a crash can be. Our team works diligently to provide timely, compassionate, and accurate information to those impacted. Whether you’re seeking support, clarity, or just need to understand your next step, we’re here to help. Reach out to Local Accident Reports today to learn how we can assist you during this time.
