Centerville, IA (March 21, 2026) – A motorcyclist lost his life following a crash with an SUV on Friday afternoon, March 20, in Centerville. The collision occurred just after 3:00 p.m. at the intersection of South 18th Street and East Green Street.
Authorities said a GMC Acadia was traveling northbound on South 18th Street when it turned west onto Green Street. A Yamaha motorcycle traveling southbound then struck the passenger side of the SUV in the intersection.
The motorcyclist, identified as Brandon Kerr Baughman, 50, of Unionville, Missouri, was taken by ambulance to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The driver of the SUV, a 16-year-old from Centerville, was not injured. A passenger in the SUV, 58-year-old Helen Lucine Elarton, was also taken to the hospital, though the extent of her injuries has not been released.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones.
Motorcycle Crashes at Intersections Can Turn Deadly
Motorcycle crashes at intersections often involve turning vehicles crossing into the rider’s path. These situations can leave little time for either driver to react.
Motorcycles are smaller and may be harder to see, especially during turns. Even a brief misjudgment of distance or speed can lead to a serious collision.
In these crashes, the rider may face greater risk due to limited protection compared to those inside vehicles. Impact with another vehicle or the roadway can result in severe injuries.
