Officials Release Details Into Fatal Crash Investigation Outside of Eldridge

Horrific Accident Leaves One Dead, Multiple Injured

Authorities have released more information regarding the fatal car crash that occurred outside of Eldridge last week, which claimed the life of one individual and left several others injured.

According to the Scott County Sheriff's Office, the accident occurred on Highway 61 near 250th Street at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 15th. A preliminary investigation revealed that a westbound vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with an eastbound vehicle.

The driver of the westbound vehicle, identified as 22-year-old Brandon Smith of Davenport, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the eastbound vehicle, 35-year-old Jessica Johnson of Eldridge, was airlifted to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics with serious injuries. Two passengers in Johnson's vehicle, 10-year-old Emily Johnson and 7-year-old Ethan Johnson, were also injured and transported to Genesis Medical Center-East for treatment.

Investigation Ongoing

The Scott County Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate the crash. According to Sheriff Tim Lane, excessive speed and alcohol may have been contributing factors. "We are still in the early stages of our investigation, but we believe that speed and alcohol were likely factors in this tragic accident," Lane said.

The crash remains under investigation, and no charges have been filed at this time. The Scott County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who witnessed the accident or has any information to contact them at (563) 326-8600.