Lyon County, IA (August 1, 2025) – A tragic crash in northwest Iowa claimed the life of a 90-year-old Sioux Center man and left four others injured Thursday morning. According to the Iowa State Patrol, the collision occurred around 10:30 a.m. on Iowa Highway 182 when a northbound Chevrolet Tahoe rear-ended a 2024 Chevrolet Blazer that was slowing to turn into a driveway.
The driver of the Blazer, identified as 90-year-old Stanley Kroese, died at the scene as a result of the impact. Authorities confirmed that Kroese had reduced speed to make a turn when the Tahoe, driven by a 39-year-old woman from Rock Valley, struck the rear of his vehicle.
The crash also injured an 84-year-old woman from Sioux Center who was traveling with Kroese. The Tahoe’s driver and two children—a 9-year-old and a 7-year-old—were also hurt. All four were transported to medical facilities in Sioux Falls, SD. The 7-year-old child required air transport due to the severity of injuries.
Law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash and has not released information on contributing factors or possible charges. Traffic on IA-182 was affected for several hours as emergency crews responded to the scene and cleared the wreckage.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Stanley Kroese and our hopes for healing and recovery to those injured in this devastating crash.
Rear-End Crashes in Iowa: Risk and Recovery
Rear-end collisions are among the most frequent yet dangerous types of crashes on Iowa’s rural highways. The fatal crash involving Stanley Kroese on Iowa Highway 182 illustrates how devastating these incidents can be, particularly when they involve elderly drivers and children.
Iowa’s rural roadways, including IA-182, often lack shoulders, turning lanes, or warning systems, making routine maneuvers—like turning into a driveway—more hazardous. When drivers fail to maintain a safe following distance or are distracted, the consequences can be tragic.
This incident resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries, with victims ranging in age from 7 to 84. Such crashes can have far-reaching emotional and financial impacts on families, from funeral arrangements to long-term medical care. In rural communities like Sioux Center and Rock Valley, these losses are felt deeply.
According to recent statistics from the Iowa Department of Transportation, 148 lives have been lost on state roads so far this year—twenty fewer than this time last year, but still a stark reminder of the dangers present on Iowa highways. Over the past five years, the state has averaged 353 traffic deaths annually, underscoring the need for continued improvements in road design, education, and enforcement.
If your family has been affected by a serious traffic accident, know that there are compassionate resources available to help you navigate the difficult road ahead.
A crash can change everything in an instant—but you don’t have to face it alone. At Local Accident Reports, we help families like yours find the support they need in the aftermath of a tragic accident. From connecting with legal and medical professionals to understanding your next steps, our team is here for you. Contact us today for guidance, support, and a path toward healing.
