Missouri – A Missouri motorcycle crash has left a Washington family grieving after a couple traveling across the country was killed in a collision on Interstate 70. Chelsi Zorn and Rodney Dean, both 36, of Kennewick, Washington, died on Aug. 3 after the motorcycle they were riding collided with a box truck during heavy traffic, according to authorities and local reports.
The couple had been on a motorcycle trip toward Little Rock, Arkansas, when their journey ended in a devastating crash.
Motorcycle Crashed Into Box Truck on Interstate 70
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Zorn and Dean were riding a 2010 Harley-Davidson Street Glide when the motorcycle collided with a box truck.
The truck was reportedly stopped in heavy traffic caused by a nearby vehicle fire on Interstate 70. Multiple lanes had been closed because of the incident, creating difficult traffic conditions along the highway.
The crash claimed the lives of both motorcycle riders. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has been contacted for additional information about the collision.
Couple Was Traveling During Cross-Country Trip
Zorn and Dean had reportedly been traveling through the lower half of the United States as part of a motorcycle trip that was taking them toward Little Rock.
Their family members described them as people who valued their family and enjoyed traveling together.
A GoFundMe organized by Dean’s sister, Julianna Kropla, described him as the eldest of five siblings and someone who had taken on a caretaker role within his family.
She remembered her brother as loving and kind, saying that despite his tough exterior, he would go great lengths to help the people he cared about.
Six Children Left Behind After Tragedy
Perhaps the most devastating part of the crash is the six children the couple leaves behind. According to the fundraising information shared by relatives, all six children are minors and now face life without both of their parents.
A fundraiser created by Kropla was established specifically to help support the children following the deaths of their parents. At the time of publication, the campaign had raised more than $7,700 toward a $10,000 goal.
Another relative, Donnie Zorn, also created a separate fundraiser to help cover funeral expenses and the growing costs associated with caring for the children.
Family Remembers Chelsi and Rodney
Donnie described Chelsi as an amazing person who was always willing to help others.
He also emphasized how much she loved her children. According to the fundraiser, the family includes 16-year-old twins as well as children ages 7 and 5.
Rodney was remembered as a hard worker who focused on providing for his family.
The couple also shared a love of motorcycle adventures, according to their relatives. Their trip through the country was one of those adventures, but it ultimately ended in tragedy on a Missouri highway.
Fundraisers Seek Help for Family and Funeral Costs
The second GoFundMe campaign has a $15,000 goal and had raised more than $7,000 at the time of publication.
The fundraisers are intended to ease the financial burden created by the sudden deaths, including funeral costs and the ongoing expenses of raising six children.
For the family, the crash represents far more than a tragic highway collision. It has left six children without their parents and relatives facing the difficult task of helping them navigate an unimaginable loss.
As loved ones continue to remember Zorn and Dean, the fundraising campaigns are providing one way for friends, relatives and members of the public to support the children during this difficult time.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking tragedy? Share your condolences or thoughts for the family in the comments below.
