Ankeny Police Decline Charges in March Incident Injuring 16 Children
ANKENY, IA – Authorities announced on May 28, 2026, that no charges will be filed against a 76-year-old driver involved in a crash that injured 16 children outside St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School on March 24.
According to a police news release, the driver accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake while approaching the pickup line, leading the vehicle to strike several students. Nine children were hospitalized at the time, but all have since been released.
The Ankeny Police Department conducted thorough investigations, including 32 interviews, executing search warrants, and performing a mechanical inspection of the vehicle. Blood samples from the driver were tested for impairment, and results did not support Operating While Intoxicated charges.
The completed case was submitted to the Polk County Attorney's Office for review. Authorities stated no legal basis for criminal charges was found, and as a result, the driver's identity will not be made public.
The department continues to extend thoughts and support to the recovering children, their families, and the community.