Fatal UTV Crash in Cedar Falls Claims Life of Local Resident

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa – A tragic UTV crash in Cedar Falls on Monday, September 16, left one person dead and another injured. The accident occurred in the afternoon at the intersection of N. Union Road and W. Cedar Wapsi Road, involving a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) and a passenger vehicle.

Authorities have identified the victim as 56-year-old Andrew Eric Clark of Cedar Falls. According to initial reports, the driver of the UTV, Clark, failed to yield at the intersection and attempted to turn left in front of an oncoming vehicle. The vehicle, driven by 41-year-old Karl Chauncey Tompkins of Ryan, was traveling southbound on Union Road when the collision occurred.

The impact of the crash sent both vehicles into a nearby ditch, where the UTV caught fire. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but Clark succumbed to his injuries. Tompkins, the driver of the other vehicle, sustained injuries but survived the crash. His current condition has not been disclosed.

The Cedar Falls Police Department and other local authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Early findings suggest that the UTV’s failure to yield was a critical factor in the accident. However, the investigation remains ongoing, and further details may be revealed as officials gather more information.

This tragic incident has left the community mourning the loss of Andrew Eric Clark. UTV crashes, though less common than other vehicle accidents, can result in serious injury or death due to the nature of the vehicles and their lack of protective features. Local officials are reminding drivers to remain vigilant at intersections and to always yield the right-of-way to prevent similar accidents.

No charges have been filed in connection with the crash at this time, but authorities will continue to examine all aspects of the incident. Anyone with information related to the accident is urged to contact the Cedar Falls Police Department.

As the investigation unfolds, more updates will be provided. This fatal crash serves as a reminder of the importance of following traffic laws and staying aware on the roads to ensure the safety of all drivers.