(Estherville)—A mishap yesterday (Saturday) in Emmet county involving two snowmobiles claimed the life of a Graettinger man.
The Iowa State Patrol says 46-year-old Earl Westergard of Graettinger was operating a snowmobile northbound in the east ditch of Emmet County Road N26 three miles south of County Road A34 when he ramped a field driveway. Authorities say he landed lower and got stuck in a snow drift.
A second snowmobile, operated by 43-year-old Ryan Peterson of Estherville, was following Westergard. Troopers say Peterson also ramped the drive, with his snowmobile landing on top of the one operated by Westergard, pinning Westergard.
Westergard was taken by the Graettinger ambulance to Avera Holy Family Hospital in Estherville where he was pronounced dead a short time later.
Minor injuries were reported to Peterson, who refused immediate treatment.
The mishap took place shortly after 5:30 p.m.
