Mahaska County, IA (April 23, 2025) – A high-speed police pursuit ended in a crash late Tuesday night in Mahaska County, leaving one man injured and requiring an emergency airlift to the hospital. According to the Iowa State Patrol, the collision occurred just after 11:30 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 92 and Dean Ave.
Authorities say 52-year-old Laverne F. Brackett of Indianola was driving a pickup truck westbound on Highway 92 while being pursued by law enforcement. During the pursuit, Brackett reportedly lost control of his vehicle, causing it to spin and come to a stop in the westbound lane while facing eastbound. One of the pursuing police vehicles then collided with Brackett’s truck.
Emergency responders, including local medics and fire crews, quickly arrived at the scene to assess the situation. Brackett sustained injuries and was airlifted to Mercy Hospital by helicopter for urgent medical treatment. Officials confirmed he was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. No other injuries were reported among responding officers or others in the area.
The incident remains under active investigation by the Iowa State Patrol. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the reason for the pursuit or potential charges.
Our thoughts are with Laverne F. Brackett, and we wish him a full and swift recovery.
Police Chase Accidents in Iowa
Police pursuits, while sometimes necessary for public safety, carry inherent risks for all involved—suspects, officers, and bystanders alike. Tuesday night’s incident at Highway 92 and Dean Ave in Mahaska County serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a chase can escalate into a serious crash with potentially life-threatening consequences.
In this case, the suspect’s vehicle lost control during the pursuit and ended up positioned directly in the path of responding officers. Collisions during pursuits are especially dangerous due to high speeds, unpredictable vehicle maneuvers, and the limited reaction time for both suspects and officers.
Law enforcement agencies across Iowa follow strict pursuit policies designed to minimize danger. These guidelines consider factors such as time of day, traffic volume, and severity of the offense before initiating or continuing a chase. However, despite these safeguards, collisions during pursuits are not uncommon, particularly on rural highways like Highway 92, where higher speeds and limited lighting can reduce visibility and control.
Mahaska County’s emergency response to this incident, including the deployment of a medical helicopter and coordination between local police and state patrol, illustrates the seriousness with which such events are handled. Their quick action likely played a crucial role in Brackett’s stabilization and transport.
For those injured in police chases—whether involved directly or as unintended victims—the aftermath can be complex. In addition to medical recovery, legal investigations often follow to determine the cause of the pursuit and assess liability. Hospital care, emotional trauma, and long-term rehabilitation may also be part of the healing process.
Individuals involved in these situations may benefit from consulting with professionals who understand both the medical and legal landscapes. Support services, trauma counseling, and experienced case managers can provide a roadmap to recovery and help ensure that injury victims receive the care and justice they deserve.
At Local Accident Reports, we understand that pursuit-related accidents come with unique challenges. From navigating insurance claims to finding medical specialists familiar with traumatic injuries, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact Local Accident Reports today to learn more about the resources available to you after a serious crash involving law enforcement.
