Plymouth, Iowa — A single-vehicle snowmobile crash injured a 23-year-old rider Saturday afternoon, prompting an emergency helicopter response in rural Plymouth.
According to the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched at 12:56 p.m. to the 2100 block of 320th Street for a reported personal injury snowmobile collision. The crash occurred on private property.
Investigators said the driver was identified as Benjamin Venenga, 23, of Nora Springs. Venenga was traveling northbound when he allegedly struck a large rock and was thrown from the snowmobile.
Authorities reported that Venenga was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and suffered injuries serious enough to require air transport. He was flown to MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center by Mason City Fire Medics for treatment.
Deputies on scene were assisted by the Plymouth Fire Department and the Mason City Fire Department. No other vehicles or riders were reported to be involved.
The Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office said the crash remains under investigation. No additional details about speed, impairment, or contributing factors have been released.
Snowmobile crashes often increase during periods of active winter recreation, particularly on rural properties and unmarked terrain. Law enforcement officials routinely remind riders to wear protective equipment and remain alert to obstacles that may be hidden by snow cover.
The incident may be of particular concern to young adults and recreational riders who frequently use private land and rural trails during peak winter weekends.
Anyone with information related to the crash is encouraged to contact the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office.
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