A deer caused a two-vehicle crash on Friday, critically injuring two individuals.
According to the Iowa State Patrol, James Coombes, 62, of Dakota Dunes, South Dakota, hit a deer while driving a 2015 Buick Encore south on Interstate 35’s left lane.
According to the crash report, Coombes pulled into the right lane and was struck from behind by Jacob Hernandez, 26, of Mankato, Minnesota, driving a 2013 Kia Rio.
The Enclave stopped in the median, while the Rio stopped in the right lane. The accident occurred around 6:20 p.m. near mile marker 162.
According to the State Patrol, both Coombes and Hernandez sustained serious injuries. Coombes was transported by helicopter to Mercy Des Moines.
Hernandez was transported via ambulance to MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City. According to the State Patrol, wearing a seatbelt saved both men’s lives.
Reference: Two men seriously hurt after two-vehicle collision in Franklin County