Mary Louise Bartine, 89, of St. Anthony Identified as Victim in Fatal Collision with Semi-Truck on U.S. Highway 65 near Bondurant; Community Mourns Beloved Resident Amid Renewed Calls for Road Safety Measures
The quiet community of St. Anthony, Iowa, is mourning the loss of one of its cherished residents, Mary Louise Bartine, 89, who tragically lost her life in a fatal two-vehicle collision north of Bondurant on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. The crash, which occurred at approximately 11:40 a.m. at the intersection of U.S. Highway 65/NE Hubbell Avenue and NE 112th Street, involved Bartine’s SUV and a semi-truck hauling a livestock trailer. This devastating incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and raised critical discussions about road safety in Iowa.
The Collision: A Moment of Devastation
According to initial reports from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Mary Louise Bartine was driving her SUV when the fatal collision occurred at a busy rural intersection. The semi-truck involved was transporting livestock and overturned upon impact, scattering debris across the highway and resulting in extensive damage to both vehicles. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but despite their efforts, Bartine was pronounced dead on-site. The semi-truck driver sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
Capt. Ryan Evans of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office described the scene as “a tragic and chaotic moment,” noting the extensive damage to both vehicles and the challenges posed by the overturned livestock trailer. The exact circumstances leading to the crash, including whether weather conditions, speed, or driver error played a role, remain under investigation.
A Beloved Community Member’s Legacy
Mary Louise Bartine was a long-time resident of St. Anthony, remembered for her kind heart, unwavering faith, and commitment to her family and friends. Known for her gentle spirit, she played an active role in her community and was a cherished figure in local gatherings. Friends describe her as a woman of warmth and generosity, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement.
“Mary Louise had a way of making everyone feel like family,” shared her niece, Rebecca Lawson. “Her loss is not just a personal tragedy but a community one. She was a light in all our lives.”
Her death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her, and her passing serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life on the road.
Road Safety Concerns in Iowa
This incident adds to a growing list of road fatalities in Iowa, where traffic accidents claim hundreds of lives annually. According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, 309 people have died in vehicle accidents across the state in 2024, a slight decrease from the 330 recorded by the same time last year. However, the loss of even one life serves as a painful reminder of the importance of road safety.
The intersection where the collision occurred, U.S. Highway 65 and NE 112th Street, has been flagged by local residents as a potentially dangerous area due to its high traffic volume and limited visibility. Several community members have called for enhanced safety measures, including better signage, traffic signals, and reduced speed limits.
The Complexity of the Crash Scene
The overturned semi-truck, which was hauling livestock at the time of the collision, added a layer of complexity to the emergency response. Authorities worked for hours to secure the scene, remove the damaged vehicles, and account for the livestock inside the overturned trailer. While the exact number of animals in the trailer has not been disclosed, officials confirmed that several pigs were involved in the incident. Their condition remains unclear.
Local veterinarians were called to assist in assessing the livestock, while specialized equipment was brought in to upright the truck and clear the roadway. This prolonged the highway’s closure, causing significant traffic disruptions in the area.
Ongoing Investigation
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Capt. Evans stated that multiple factors, including the speed of both vehicles, road conditions, and the actions of each driver, are being carefully examined. Witnesses have been urged to come forward with any information that may help piece together what happened.
Preliminary findings suggest that rural intersections like the one on U.S. Highway 65 pose unique risks due to the convergence of high-speed traffic and vehicles entering or crossing the roadway. Experts have highlighted the need for improved intersection design to mitigate these risks.
Community Response: A Call to Action
Mary Louise Bartine’s death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from the Bondurant and St. Anthony communities. Vigils and prayer services have been held in her memory, with friends and family gathering to honor her life and share their grief.
Local leaders have also voiced concerns about the safety of Iowa’s rural roadways, calling for renewed investment in infrastructure and education to prevent future tragedies. Suggestions include adding rumble strips, flashing lights, and other warning systems at high-risk intersections.
“This is a heartbreaking loss for our community, but it must serve as a wake-up call,” said Sarah Mills, a Bondurant resident and advocate for road safety improvements. “We need to take proactive steps to ensure no other family has to endure this kind of pain.”
Road Safety Reminders for All Drivers
Experts emphasize the importance of vigilance and caution on the road, particularly in areas prone to high-speed traffic and frequent collisions. Key recommendations include:
- Stay Focused: Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or using mobile devices while driving.
- Observe Traffic Signals: Pay close attention to stop signs, traffic lights, and right-of-way rules at intersections.
- Adjust Speed: Reduce speed in unfamiliar areas or when visibility is limited.
- Exercise Caution Near Large Vehicles: Be aware of semi-trucks’ larger blind spots and longer stopping distances.
By following these guidelines, drivers can help reduce the likelihood of accidents and protect themselves and others on the road.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation into the crash continues, the community is left to grapple with the sudden and tragic loss of a cherished individual. Mary Louise Bartine’s death underscores the profound impact of traffic accidents and the urgent need for measures to improve safety on Iowa’s roads.
Her legacy will live on through the memories of those who knew and loved her, and her story serves as a poignant reminder of the responsibility shared by all drivers to prioritize safety behind the wheel. The community of St. Anthony mourns her loss while looking toward a future where such tragedies can be prevented.
