Pocahontas County, IA (August 8, 2025) – A tragic head-on collision occurred just north of Pomeroy on Thursday, August 7, resulting in the death of one driver and injuries to another. The crash happened in the 60000 block of Iowa State Highway 4 (220th Ave) around 12:02 p.m., prompting a swift response from multiple emergency agencies.
According to the Pocahontas County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa State Patrol, 31-year-old Darwin Benjamin Rosales Castillo of Westminster, CO, was driving northbound on Highway 4 when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a southbound car.
Deputies arriving on scene found Castillo entrapped and unresponsive. Despite rescue efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His vehicle came to rest in the center of the highway, sustaining extensive front-end damage.
The driver of the southbound vehicle, 65-year-old Ronald Meyer of Pocahontas, was treated on scene for minor injuries and released by ambulance personnel. His vehicle was found on the highway shoulder with significant damage from the impact.
The cause of the crash is under investigation by the Iowa State Patrol, and no further details have been released at this time.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Darwin Rosales Castillo and offer our thoughts to Ronald Meyer as he recovers from this traumatic event.
Fatal Head-On Collisions in Rural Iowa
This devastating crash on Highway 4 near Pomeroy underscores the persistent dangers of head-on collisions in rural regions of Iowa. Two-lane highways like 220th Ave are essential for regional travel but present elevated risks, especially when vehicles cross into oncoming traffic.
Head-on collisions are among the deadliest types of crashes due to the force of two vehicles moving toward each other at speed. Even brief distractions, fatigue, or overcorrection can lead to a sudden and catastrophic impact. In this case, authorities have not yet identified what caused Castillo’s vehicle to drift across the centerline, but such incidents often happen without warning.
Northwest Iowa’s open stretches of road, while seemingly calm, can be deceptive. Limited visual obstructions and infrequent intersections may create a false sense of security, leading to lapses in attention or drowsy driving—both common contributors to fatal crashes in rural settings.
For surviving victims and the families of those lost, the aftermath of a fatal crash is emotionally and financially overwhelming. Navigating grief, medical follow-ups, or legal questions can become paralyzing without trusted help.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by a fatal crash in Iowa, Local Accident Reports is here to provide support. We help families and injured individuals connect with local resources for medical care, grief counseling, and legal guidance. Reach out today to begin the journey toward healing with trusted help by your side.
