Wright receives 12 years

At his sentencing hearing last Thursday, Jacob R. Wright was given 12 years in prison for his role in the fatal collision that occurred Nov. 12, 2025. The 41-year-old Grand River man pleaded guilty to the charges of knowingly leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death and failure to assist, receiving 10 and two years respectively; the sentences will run consecutive to one another.

Wright was originally charged with involuntary manslaughter; leaving the scene of an accident - causing death or serious injury and failure to assist following a collision that resulted in the death of 16-year-old Elmer Bortntrager of Murray. Elmer had been driving a horse-drawn buggy north on R15 just south of Murray when at about 6:02 p.m. he was struck from behind by an unknown vehicle. The collision caused Elmer to be ejected from the buggy, and he died at the scene from his injuries.

Based on the plea agreement with the State of Iowa, Wright’s charge of involuntary manslaughter has been dismissed.

Wright was sentenced immediately following his hearing and will receive credit for time served on his offenses. He will be transported to the Iowa Medical Classification Center in Oakdale by the Clarke County Sheriff where he will be transferred to the custody of the Iowa Department of Corrections. Probation was denied.

As part of his sentencing, Wright was charged additional victim pecuniary damages in the amount of $150,000, payable to Mr. and Mrs. David Borntrager, heirs of Elmer; initial damages are to be determined. Wright was fined $1,370 for leaving the scene of an accident and $855 for failure to assist.

Knowingly leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death is a Class C felony and failure to assist an aggravated misdemeanor. As a convicted felon, Wright will be ineligible to carry a dangerous weapon. Bond set on appeal if $12,000 cash only.