Wayne, WI (August 19, 2026) – A 23-year-old Iowa woman died on Tuesday morning after an accident involving a UTV in Lafayette County.
Chloe Scholtes of Bellevue, Iowa, was a passenger in the UTV when it rolled around 8:15 p.m. Monday, August 18, on Fox Valley Rd in the Town of Wayne. The driver, a 22-year-old Dubuque woman, was traveling west when she lost control.
Both women were ejected as the UTV overturned. Scholtes was flown to St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison with life-threatening injuries and died Tuesday morning.
The driver and two boys who were also riding in the UTV were taken to SSM Health Monroe Hospital. The Lafayette County sheriff said the boys were not wearing helmets at the time of the collision. The circumstances surrounding the wreck remain under investigation.
Our condolences go out to Scholtes’ family, friends, and loved ones.
Why Can UTV Rollovers Cause Severe Injuries?
UTV rollovers can cause serious injuries because occupants may be thrown from the vehicle when it overturns. Ejection can expose riders to additional hazards as the vehicle moves across the ground.
Helmets protect the head during recreational vehicle accidents. Seat belts and other available restraints can also help keep occupants secured within the vehicle during sudden movements.
Speed, sharp turns, uneven ground, and loss of control can increase the chance of a rollover. Riders should follow manufacturer safety recommendations and use appropriate protective equipment.
Passengers should also remain seated and use available restraints while the UTV is moving. Keeping the vehicle within its designed operating limits can reduce risks associated with sudden changes in direction.
