Gubernatorial candidate Rich Stanek in hospital after crash in Buffalo

Minnesota gubernatorial Rich Stanek was taken to the hospital for injuries he suffered in a car crash Tuesday, according to a spokesperson for his campaign. 

Stanek was taken to Robbinsdale North Memorial Hospital “out of an abundance of caution,” according to the spokesperson, and he is expected to be discharged Thursday. 

A crash incident report from the Minnesota State Patrol shows that the crash happened at the intersection of Highway 25 and Catlin Street in Buffalo just after 8:30 p.m.

The crash report states Stanek was leaving the parking lot of Buffalo Covenant Church in a Ram 1500 when he crashed into a Chevrolet Malibu headed north on Highway 25. Stanek’s campaign spokesperson confirmed he was returning from a campaign event.  

No alcohol was involved and both drivers were wearing seatbelts, according to the report. Both drivers’ injuries are listed as non-life-threatening, and the driver of the other car was not taken to a hospital.

Former Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek addresses his run for governor during an interview Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2022. (KSTP)

The former Hennepin County sheriff announced he was running for governor as a Republican candidate in February.