151 accident results in fatalities

     A two-vehicle accident on Highway 151 on Dec. 18 resulted in two juvenile fatalities.

     According to the Iowa State Patrol, Ryan Daniel Powers, 41, of Horicon, Wis., was driving a 2016 Kenworth Semi south on the highway. The second vehicle, a 2007 Hyundai Veracruz, driven by Brandon James Hunter, 32, of Monticello, was traveling east on 215^th Avenue. Hunter slid through the stop sign and was struck by Powers.

     Hunter and two of his occupants were injured in the accident: Molli J. Hunter, 31, and Hope Hunter, 13, both of Monticello. They were taken by AirCare to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

     Six-year-old Donald Hunter and 8-year-old Diamond Hunter, also of Monticello, were listed as the fatalities. Donald was transported by Anamosa Ambulance to St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids. Diamond was taken by AirCare to the UIHC.

     No injuries were reported for Powers.

     The accident remains under investigation by the Iowa State Patrol.

     Monticello Schools’ Superintendent Dr. Brian Jaeger released a statement on behalf of the school district in which the Hunter children attended: “It is with deep sadness that we share this news with you. We subsequently learned that one of our middle school students was injured and remains in serious condition, and two of our Carpenter Elementary students lost their lives as a result of the accident. This is a terrible tragedy for the family, our school, and our community.

     “Counselors, teachers, and other support personnel have been, and will continue to be, available to our students. If you have concerns about your student, please feel free to call the school.

     “Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.”