McGregor, IA (May 29, 2026) – A three-vehicle accident Thursday afternoon in northeast Iowa left one person seriously hurt and required an airlift to receive medical care. The collision was reported at approximately 3:51 p.m. at the intersection of Hwy 18 and Hwy 52 in rural McGregor.
A 2023 Freightliner semi driven by Edward Kruse, 78, of Cresco, was heading eastbound on Hwy 18 when a silver 2013 Chrysler 300, driven by Susan Henkels, 61, of Farmersburg, failed to yield while making a left turn from the westbound lane. Then the two vehicles collided, and the force pushed the Chrysler into a white 2018 Lexus RX350 that was stopped at a nearby stop sign. The Lexus was driven by Christine Smith, 52, of Vinton.
Henkels was airlifted from the wreck in serious condition. Kruse and Smith were uninjured.
The cause of the crash is still being examined, and additional findings are expected as the review continues. We hope Susan Henkels makes a full recovery and holds our thoughts as she receives care.
What Typically Happens After a Multi-Vehicle Crash Involving a Semi-Truck in Iowa?
Crashes involving semi-trucks and passenger vehicles tend to produce more severe outcomes due to the size and weight difference between the vehicles. When a large commercial truck is involved, the force of a collision can push smaller cars into other nearby vehicles or fixed objects. This is one reason why intersections with mixed traffic, including commercial trucks, can be particularly unforgiving when a driver fails to yield.
Airlift transport is typically used when the severity of a person’s injuries requires faster access to a trauma center than a ground unit can provide. In rural parts of Iowa, where hospitals may be a significant distance away, air medical services are a common part of emergency response planning.
Investigators reviewing multi-vehicle crashes will often look at factors such as right-of-way, vehicle speed, road markings, and driver visibility at the intersection. Dashcam footage, physical evidence from the road, and witness accounts can all help reconstruct how the sequence of events unfolded.
