(Oakland) A jury trial is set for May 13th for an Oakland man involved in a fatal UTV accident.
According to court records, 85-year-old Gene Fritz was charged in February with Homicide by Vehicle – Reckless Driving. He posted a $10,000 surety bond.
The accident happened on December 26, 2024 at 570 North Highway Street. Upon arrival, deputies found the UTV on the sidewalk and the victim, identified as 83-year-old Sandra Madron, lying on her left side. The driver of the UTV, identified as Gene Fritz, stated to deputies that he was heading home and often drove his UTV on the sidewalk because he can’t see well and he, “drives very slow”. When asked where he was coming from he said that he had just left the bar and had two beers. He stated that he didn’t see Sandra Madron until he hit her and “she must have been wearing dark clothing”. Sandra Madron was transported to Mercy Hospital in Council Bluffs where she passed away.
Arraignment is set for March 31st, a jury trial is scheduled for May 13th at 9:30 a.m.
