Loose trailer damages bridge near Coppock

COPPOCK — A single motor vehicle accident near Coppock obstructed the roadway Sunday, March 3, and required assistance to manage traffic and clear the roadway.

On March 3, 2024, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office received notification of a single motor vehicle accident occurring in the 1100-grid of U.S. Highway 78, near Coppock. The roadway was blocked, and traffic was unable to pass by.

An investigation determined a towed motor vehicle and trailer, driven by Timothy Richards of Fairfield, became unsecure and free traveling, due to an equipment failure. This resulted in a collision with bridge guardrails and footings. These events caused substantial damage to the bridge, as well as the towed vehicle and trailer.

Traffic was detoured around the accident, as the roadway was cleared. No injuries resulted from events and an estimate of total property damage(s) was found to be over $20,000 in total value.

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Iowa State Patrol, Wayland Fire Department, Iowa Department of Transportation, local tow services, and area community members.