Richard Lang Injured in Head-On Collision on Highway 169 in South Harbor Township, MN

On August 17, 2025, at approximately 11:58 AM, a fatal two-vehicle crash occurred on Highway 169 near Milepost 218 in South Harbor Township, Mille Lacs County, Minnesota. A 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer, operated by 69-year-old Donald George Goerisch of Big Lake, crossed the center line while traveling southbound and struck a northbound 2020 Honda Ridgeline pickup head-on. Goerisch, who was unrestrained at the time, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Honda Ridgeline was driven by 79-year-old Richard Christ Lang of Excelsior, MN. Lang and his passenger, 62-year-old Mary Beth Lick, also of Excelsior, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Both were wearing seat belts. Emergency crews, including North Memorial and Lifelink Air, responded to the scene, with Lang transported to North Memorial Hospital and Lick taken to Duluth St. Mary’s for further medical evaluation. Road conditions were reported as dry, and no alcohol was involved.