Motorcyclist loses part of leg in crash

BANGOR, Mich. (WOOD) - A Bangor man lost part of his left leg after his motorcycle collided with a van in Van Buren County Monday afternoon.

The crash happened around 2 p.m. at the intersection of County Road 687 and 48th Avenue in Bangor Township, according to the Van Buren County Sheriff's Department.

Charles Meachum's southbound motorcycle collided in the intersection with a westbound Ford Econoline van driven by Mark Watkins. 

The 44-year-old Watkins from Covert had stopped at the stop sign, authorities say, and proceeded into the intersection but didn't see the motorcycle.

The 62-year-old motorcyclist from Bangor sustained several broken ribs, a broken left arm and multiple lacerations and bruises. His left leg was amputated below the knee at the scene.

Meachum was airlifted from the scene and underwent surgery at a hospital where he is in critical condition.

Meachum was wearing a helmet. Watkins was wearing his seat belt and not hurt.

Alcohol was not a factor, authorities say. The incident remains under investigation.