April 4, 2026, 5:16 p.m. CT
Two killed in northern Iowa accident due to illegal U-turn, reports Iowa State Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 3, on southbound Highway 69 at 200th Street, just south of Belmond. Michael Michelson, 65, of Belmond, was making an illegal U-turn when his 2000 Ford Ranger was struck by a southbound 2014 Dodge Ram 1500.
Both Michelson and his passenger, Ellen Countryman, 71, also of Belmond, suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. Michelson was wearing a seatbelt; however, Countryman was not.
The driver of the Dodge Ram, 25-year-old Mcain Alan Hefti of Dows, reportedly sustained no injuries. Authorities have indicated there are no charges filed in connection with the incident.
The Iowa State Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
For more local updates, visit the Iowa State Patrol website.