(Stuart) The Iowa State Patrol, in collaboration with the Stuart Police Department, is hosting an important event to raise awareness for students at West Central Valley as they prepare for prom weekend. Iowa State Patrol Trooper and District #4 Public Information Officer Shelby McCreedy says the key message for the students is that every choice matters, and even seemingly small decisions can have serious consequences.
McCreedy points to a tragic accident on July 1, 2022, that claimed the lives of three teenagers from Dubuque during a night filled with reckless driving. The 18-year-old male driver had been speeding throughout the evening, reaching speeds of up to 149 mph, and was driving over 100 mph at the time of the crash. Both passengers, 17-year-olds Kennedy Elskamp and Chloe Lucas, lost their lives alongside the driver just two weeks after they had met him. Trooper McCreedy stated that, in a meaningful gesture, the families of Kennedy and Chloe, with support from their insurance companies, donated the wrecked Camaro to the Iowa State Patrol for use in educational programs. McCreedy says this vehicle will be displayed at WCV on March 31, along with the girls’ parents and the ISP Technical Investigator involved in the crash investigation.
Trooper McCreedy says the parents will share their experiences and insights with the student body regarding the decisions made that tragic night. This significant event will be held on Monday, March 31, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at West Central Valley High School.
