Rockville, MN (August 23, 2025) – A motorcycle and van collided on Friday night in Stearns County, leaving one person injured. The Minnesota State Patrol reported that the crash happened at 9:19 p.m. at the intersection of northbound Highway 23 and County Road 47 in Rockville.
According to investigators, a 2007 Kawasaki ZX600 motorcycle driven by 21-year-old Zander Bradley Barthel of Richmond was traveling north on Highway 23 when it collided with a 2015 Chrysler Town & Country van driven by 74-year-old Diana Mary Leyk of St. Cloud, who was heading west on County Road 47.
Barthel sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Saint Cloud Hospital for treatment. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. Leyk was not injured in the incident. Alcohol was not a factor for either driver.
Rockville Fire & Rescue and Mayo Ambulance assisted at the scene. The roadway was dry at the time of the collision, and airbags deployed in the Chrysler van.
We extend our thoughts to Zander Barthel and wish him a swift and full recovery.
Motorcycle Crashes in Minnesota
Collisions involving motorcycles and passenger vehicles, such as Friday’s crash in Rockville, often result in serious injuries for riders due to their lack of protection. Even with a helmet, motorcyclists face high risks of trauma when struck by larger vehicles.
Intersections remain one of the most common sites for motorcycle accidents. Many crashes occur when drivers of passenger vehicles misjudge a motorcyclist’s speed or fail to yield while making turns. In this case, the collision at Highway 23 and County Road 47 underscores the dangers motorcyclists face in rural and suburban traffic environments.
For riders like Barthel, recovery may require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work. Beyond physical healing, motorcycle crash victims often face significant financial and emotional burdens. Accessing proper support and resources is critical for managing these challenges.
Minnesota safety officials continue to emphasize motorcycle awareness campaigns, reminding drivers to “look twice” at intersections and give riders the space they need. Motorcyclists are also encouraged to wear full protective gear and ride defensively to reduce risks.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle crash in Minnesota, help is available to guide you through the recovery process.
Were you or a loved one hurt in a motorcycle accident in Stearns County? Collisions like the one on Highway 23 can leave lasting effects. At Local Accident Reports, we connect injured riders with trusted medical providers, legal support, and recovery resources. Don’t face the aftermath alone; contact us today to take the first step toward healing.
