A Wednesday evening crash at a Des Moines intersection has claimed the life of 40-year-old motorcyclist Matthew Ringgenberg, marking the city’s fifth traffic-related fatality of 2025. The tragic incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. on June 4th at the intersection of SW 9th Street and Luster Lane, near the Blank Park Zoo.
According to the Des Moines Police Department (DMPD), Ringgenberg was involved in a collision with a passenger car. Despite the swift arrival of emergency crews, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The driver of the car, an adult female, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized. Two passengers in her vehicle were unharmed.
The DMPD Traffic Unit has launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Details regarding fault, vehicle speeds, signal status, or the sequence of events leading to the impact have not yet been released. SW 9th Street was closed for several hours as investigators meticulously processed the scene.
Iowa’s Motorcycle Safety Challenge
Ringgenberg’s death underscores a persistent and alarming trend across Iowa. While motorcycles represent only about 4% of registered vehicles in the state, riders account for a staggering 18% of all traffic fatalities. This disproportionate risk makes motorcyclists in Iowa roughly 55 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of other vehicles.
A critical factor highlighted by state data is helmet use – or the lack thereof. A shocking 74% of motorcyclists killed in Iowa over the past five years were not wearing a helmet at the time of their crash. This figure far exceeds the national average of 38% and occurs against the backdrop of Iowa being one of only three states without a universal helmet law. Adults over 18 are not required to wear one.
Broader Risks and Calls for Action
This tragedy occurred alongside other fatal motorcycle incidents in Iowa that week, including collisions involving failure to yield and striking wildlife, illustrating the diverse dangers riders face. Iowa does promote safety through education (like the Motorcycle Rider Education program) and awareness campaigns (such as “Share the Road” and Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month).
However, safety advocates point to a disconnect between these efforts and the lack of a helmet mandate, a measure proven effective when Iowa briefly had one in the 1970s, resulting in a 40% drop in fatalities.
Staying Safe on Iowa Roads
As the investigation into Matthew Ringgenberg’s death continues, his loss serves as a somber call for heightened awareness:
1. For Motorcyclists: Always wear a DOT-certified helmet and protective gear, regardless of the law. Use lights, wear bright clothing, ride defensively, and maintain safe distances. Consider advanced rider training courses.
2. For All Drivers: Actively check blind spots, especially for motorcycles. Use turn signals early. Maintain a safe following distance behind motorcycles. Never drive distracted or impaired.
3. For the Community: Support data-driven safety improvements and ongoing discussions about effective measures, including helmet laws, to protect vulnerable road users.
The death of Matthew Ringgenberg is a deeply personal loss and a sign of the ongoing challenges to motorcycle safety in Des Moines and across Iowa. Vigilance, responsible choices, and a commitment to shared road safety are crucial in preventing further tragedies.
