March 28, 2024

1 dead in fatal accident on Highway 34

One person is dead following a fatal accident 4:07 p.m. June 12 on Highway 34 just west of R25.

According to an Iowa State Patrol report, Jesse Lee Bain, of Ottumwa, driving a 2017 Freightliner semi, was headed east on Highway 34, when, for an unknown reason, Jesse John Ray, of Osceola, driving a 2010 Toyota west on Highway 34 in the same location as Bain, crossed over the center line into the eastbound lane.

Bain hit his brakes and attempted, unsuccessfully, to swerve out of the way. Ray’s vehicle struck Bain’s vehicle head on. Bain’s vehicle entered the south ditch where it came to rest. Ray’s vehicle remained in the roadway.

Bain was taken to Clarke County Hospital with non-incapacitating injuries. Ray was pronounced dead on scene. The accident remains under investigation.

Estimated damages were $115,000 to Bain’s vehicle and $12,000 to Ray’s vehicle.