A late-night crash in Muscatine County has claimed the life of a 19-year-old driver, with authorities continuing to investigate what led to the incident.
Officials say the crash was reported around 8:45 p.m. Wednesday near the intersection of Highway 61 and Zachary Avenue. Emergency crews were quickly alerted, including through automatic crash detection notifications from mobile devices.
Deputies arriving at the scene found a single vehicle off the roadway in a ditch north of the intersection. According to preliminary information, the vehicle had been traveling northbound before leaving the road.
Investigators say the vehicle struck a raised traffic island and a sign before coming to rest after a series of impacts.
The driver, identified as Cameron M. Lewis, 19, of Muscatine, was pronounced deceased at the scene, authorities confirmed. A second occupant, Riley T. Bornsen, also 19, sustained injuries described as minor and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
No other vehicles were involved in the crash.
Officials noted that emergency aid efforts were already underway when first responders were dispatched, based on initial reports received. At this time, authorities have not determined the cause of the crash. Investigators are continuing to review all available evidence to better understand the events leading up to the incident.
Law enforcement is urging anyone who may have been in the area or who has information that could assist in the investigation to come forward.
Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
