(Ruthven)– Authorities say alcohol appears to have been a contributing factor in a single-vehicle crash early this (Tuesday) morning in Clay county that injured four young people.
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office says 21-year-old Tyler Kronemann of Ruthven was driving a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche northbound on 315th Avenue when he became distracted and lost control. The vehicle went into the east ditch. Kronemann then drove into the north ditch, struck and crossed a driveway before coming to rest.
Kronemann and four passengers were able to free themselves from the wreckage.
Kronemann and a passenger, 21-year-old Zachary Williamson of Ruthven were taken to Spencer Hospital. Two other passengers, 23-year-old Billy Sundall of Ruthven and 21-year-old Jessica Long of Emmetsburg were taken to the Palo Alto County Hospital in Emmetsburg.
All four were treated and released.
Another passenger, 24-year-old Jennifer Wickman of Emmetsburg, wasn’t injured.
A preliminary investigation indicates Wickman was the only one in the vehicle wearing safety belts and not consuming alcohol.
Deputies say alcohol appears to be a contributing factor in the crash and charges are pending against Kronemann, pending results of a blood sample sent to the Iowa DCI crime lab.
Officials say alcohol and traffic charges may also be pending against Williamson, Sundall and Long.
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on the scene by Dickens Fire and Rescue, Emmetsburg and Ruthven ambulance services, Ruthven Fire and Rescue and Spencer Hospital.
