Crime & Safety
Cerro Gordo County, IA Crash: 2 Injured After Vehicle Rolls
Mason City, IA – Two Mason City residents were taken for medical treatment after a vehicle rolled into a ditch Saturday night in Cerro Gordo County. Authorities say the crash occurred after the driver
By Avery Collins · 2026-10-12T13:43:08.300Z
Mason City, IA – Two Mason City residents were taken for medical treatment after a vehicle rolled into a ditch Saturday night in Cerro Gordo County. Authorities say the crash occurred after the driver swerved to avoid a deer that entered the roadway.
According to the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff 's Office, deputies were dispatched around 9:37 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, to the area of 280th Street and Thrush Avenue following a report of a single vehicle accident.
Investigators said 18 year old Courtney Ann Latham of Mason City was traveling southbound on Thrush Avenue in a black 2013 Chevrolet Malibu when she swerved to avoid a deer.
The sudden maneuver caused Latham to lose control of the vehicle, which entered a ditch and rolled.
Driver and Passenger Taken for Medical Treatment Latham and her passenger, 23 year old Tyler John Sullivan of Mason City, were transported by private vehicle to MercyOne in Mason City for medical treatment before deputies arrived at the crash scene.
The Sheriff's Office did not disclose the extent of their injuries or provide additional information about their medical conditions.
Authorities also did not indicate whether the vehicle struck the deer or whether other factors contributed to the rollover.
Crash Highlights Rural Roadway Hazards The incident occurred along a rural stretch of roadway outside Mason City, where unexpected wildlife encounters can create dangerous driving situations.
Deer can enter roadways suddenly, particularly during evening and nighttime hours, leaving motorists little time to react.
Safety officials generally recommend braking firmly while maintaining control of the vehicle rather than making sudden steering movements that could result in a rollover or collision with another object.
The Cerro Gordo County Sheriff's Office is listed as the investigating agency.
No citations or charges were announced in the initial release.
Motorists traveling rural roads around Mason City are encouraged to remain alert for wildlife, especially after dark.