At 12:12 p.m. on February 7, 2019, the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call of a two vehicle accident in the 3400 Block of 420th Avenue (Highway #4). Upon investigation it was determined a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu being operated by Blake Swanson (19) of Estherville, IA., was traveling south on 420th avenue and was attempting to turn into a farm driveway located at 3443 420th Avenue. At the same time a 2000 Buick Le Sabre, being operated by Thedric Williams (39) of Graettinger, IA., was also traveling south on 420th Avenue behind the Swanson vehicle. Williams was unable to reduce his speed and collided with the rear end of the Swanson vehicle. Swanson’s vehicle would come to rest in the west ditch.
Swanson was uninjured in the event. Two passengers in the Williams vehicle received minor non-incapacitating injuries and were transported to the Palo Alto County Hospital. Both vehicles were deemed totaled as a result of the accident.
Thedric Williams was issued citations for failure to have a valid driver’s license, failure to maintain or use safety belt, and failure to maintain a reasonable and proper speed, all simple misdemeanors. A passenger in the Williams vehicle, Stephanie Gaona (35) of Graettinger, IA. was issued a citation for failure to maintain or use safety belt, a simple misdemeanor.
Assisting the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office at the scene was the Emmetsburg Fire Department and the Palo Alto County Ambulance Service.
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