Mason City, IA (August 13, 2026) – Three people were injured on Wednesday afternoon after two vehicles collided at 265th St and Lark Ave. The crash was reported at about 3:12 p.m.
Marlys Hefte, 84, of Garner, was driving a 2012 Nissan Rogue west on 265th St with passenger Bernard Korsa, 86, also of Garner. Audrina Bonjour, 17, of Belmond, was driving a 2011 Ford F-150 near the intersection when the two vehicles collided.
Bonjour received treatment at the scene for minor injuries and was released into the care of medics. Hefte and Korsa reported pain and injuries of unknown severity before being taken to MercyOne North Iowa’s emergency room for evaluation.
Both vehicles had occupant restraints in use, and their airbags deployed. The Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation with assistance from the Mason City Fire Department.
We hope those hurt make a full recovery.
What Should Drivers Know About Crashes at Uncontrolled Intersections?
Uncontrolled intersections lack traffic signals or stop signs at every approach. Drivers must watch for other vehicles and determine when it is safe to proceed. Extra caution is particularly useful when visibility is limited or when vehicles approach from different directions.
Right-of-way rules help determine which vehicle should proceed first, but drivers must remain alert and avoid entering an intersection when another vehicle is already crossing. Turning drivers should check for approaching traffic before moving across another vehicle’s path.
Seatbelts can help keep occupants secured inside a vehicle during a sudden collision. Airbags provide another layer of protection by helping cushion the head and upper body during rapid deceleration.
