On Saturday, June 26, 2021, at 4:30 p.m., the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call of a motorcycle accident in the 4200 block of 360th Street. After investigation, it was determined Shawn Birchem (53) of Sioux Falls, SD. was operating a 2003 Honda VYX 1800 eastbound on 360th Street. The motorcycle began to hydroplane causing Birchem to lose control of the motorcycle. The motorcycle would fall on to it’s left side and slide down the highway a short distance. Birchem was partially ejected from the motorcycle during the accident. Birchem was checked out by the Palo Alto County Ambulance Service at the scene and was found to have no injuries. Damage to the Honda VTX was estimated at $3,000.
Assisting the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office at the scene was the Emmetsburg Police Department, Palo Alto County Ambulance Service, and Wickman Towing.