Westgate, IA – A Hudson woman was airlifted to an Iowa City hospital Saturday after being ejected from an ATV in a crash near Westgate, according to the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred around 11:36 a.m. on November 15, 2025, on T Avenue near 90th Street, approximately one mile south of Westgate. Deputies said Shawn Allen Phillips, 39, of Hudson, was driving a red 2024 Can-Am Defender XT northbound when a strong wind gust blew open the soft-framed passenger door.
According to investigators, passenger Cara Christine Conroy, 41, of Hudson, was not wearing a seat belt at the time. She reportedly grabbed the open door and was ejected from the vehicle, sustaining life-threatening injuries.
Conroy was first taken to MercyOne Hospital in Oelwein before being airlifted to the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by Westgate Ambulance, the Westgate Fire Department, Gunderson Air, and the Iowa State Patrol. Authorities say the crash remains under investigation.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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