Fayette County, IA – A 9-month-old baby is safe after being found inside an SUV that crashed into a semi Friday afternoon on Highway 18 near Hawkeye, according to the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the collision happened at about 12:06 p.m. on Sept. 19, 2025, when a 2004 GMC Envoy XL struck the back of a semi-trailer that was turning south onto W Avenue. Authorities identified the semi driver as Shane Michael Booth, 48, of Waterloo, and the SUV driver as Bradley Dean Chandler, 46, of Sumner.
No injuries were reported, but investigators said the semi sustained about $10,000 in damages while the SUV had around $5,000. Chandler was charged with failure to yield on a left turn and failure to provide proof of financial liability.
Inside Chandler’s vehicle, deputies discovered a 9-month-old baby girl. The Sheriff’s Office contacted the Department of Health and Human Services, which took custody of the child. Officials emphasized that the baby was unharmed and is now safe under state care.
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Hawkeye Fire Department, Hawkeye First Responders, and Gundersen Ambulance. The incident remains under investigation.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
