Ankeny, IA (July 27, 2026) – Two people were injured on Saturday, July 25, when a motorcycle lost control on Interstate 35. The collision occurred around 3:00 p.m. near mile marker 92.
A Harley-Davidson was traveling south when its rear tire blew out. The driver then lost control, and the motorcycle slid onto the outside shoulder.
The driver was identified as 37-year-old Brian Christopher Geary. His passenger was identified as 39-year-old Ashley Nicole Thompson, and both are from Kansas City, Missouri.
Geary and Thompson were brought to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their medical conditions were not included in the initial accident report.
Emergency units worked along the interstate as traffic delays reached about 20 minutes. The roadway was cleared less than an hour after the motorcycle went down. The investigation into the wreck remains active as additional details are reviewed.
We hope both people receive the care and support they need while recovering.
How Can a Rear-Tire Blowout Affect a Motorcycle?
A sudden rear-tire failure can make a motorcycle difficult to control. The back of the bike may move from side to side, especially when traveling at highway speeds. Abrupt steering or braking can make the movement harder to correct.
Motorcyclists are generally advised to keep the handlebars steady and reduce speed gradually after a tire failure. Shifting body weight carefully may help maintain balance until the motorcycle can leave the travel lanes.
Tire pressure, tread depth, age, and visible wear can affect how safely a tire performs. Heat and road debris may also contribute to sudden failure. Regular inspections can help identify cracks, punctures, or uneven tread before a trip.
