A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the family of Steve Linders, the public information officer for the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office who was severely injured in a moped accident on May 3, 2025.
The fundraiser, organized by the Linders family, aims to cover medical costs and household expenses as Steve faces a long recovery.
On the evening of May 3, around 6:00 p.m., Steve and his wife, Nikki, were riding their moped when a driver abruptly pulled out in front of them. The collision left Steve with severe injuries, including brain swelling, bleeding, a skull fracture, and a broken hip requiring surgical replacement. He was sent to the ICU at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) and placed on a ventilator as medical staff closely monitor his condition, according to the GoFundMe. Nikki sustained minor injuries and is physically stable but remains by her husband’s side.
“We entered 2025 with hope in our hearts, believing this year would bring only good news,” said Erin Linders, Steve’s daughter-in-law, on the fundraiser page. “But last night, our family was struck by another heartbreaking event—one we are praying will turn into a story of strength, recovery, and miracles.”
“Steve is not just a devoted husband and father,” said Erin. “He’s a hardworking businessman, a dreamer, and a provider who loves his family more than anything.”
“Answers are few, but our prayers are many—we are holding on to hope for a full recovery and full healing of his brain,” she added.
Sheriff Bob Fletcher, Steve’s boss, addressed the incident at the start of his Live on Patrol stream Tuesday.
“He and his wife were on a moped and another person, we’re not sure if it’s distracted or intoxicated, but anyhow they had an accident. I think the other person went to jail,” Fletcher said.
Fletcher described Linders’ injuries as “very serious” and said the accident happened in Richfield.
“He was intubated for quite some time, I think he still is,” Fletcher said. “We want your prayers for Steve Linders.”
“There isn’t really a nicer guy,” he continued. “We love him. Honestly, just one of the kindest, nicest persons I’ve ever seen. He was actually thinking of going to work for another agency and we were all distraught. Amazing guy.”
The Linders family, including Steve and Nikki’s grandchildren, is grappling with the emotional and financial toll of the accident. The GoFundMe will assist Nikki with ongoing expenses and anticipated medical bills, which remain uncertain as Steve’s treatment continues.
The family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and generosity. “Your generosity means more than words can express,” Erin wrote, noting the family’s recent challenges over the past several months.
Symone Harms
Symone Harms is a Media Production and Business Marketing student at Bethel University. She is actively involved in The Royals Investment Fund, The 25, theatre, and other leadership positions. She also cohosts Rooted, a podcast dedicated to being rooted in truth, growing in freedom, and prospering in life. A Minnesota native with a passion for storytelling and digital media, she aspires to a career in broadcasting as a news anchor and reporter.
