CLEAR LAKE – A Clear Lake man decided to accelerate his Ford Explorer to speeds in excess of 100 mph in an attempt to flee law enforcement, then found himself tumbling into a marsh.
At about 9:47 PM on April 8, 2024, a Cerro Gordo county deputy was patrolling Southshore Drive near Clear Lake State Park when he observed a 2007 Ford Explorer Sport driving at a high rate of speed. The deputy attempted to make a traffic stop and the driver fled at high speed, reaching over 100 miles per hour. Within about 30 seconds of attempting the stop, the driver of the Explorer Sport lost control and rolled the vehicle into the marsh area at the intersection of Southshore Drive and 235th Street. The vehicle rolled several times and came to rest on its side in the marsh.
As a result of the crash, the driver, Norman Christopher Coles, 48, of Clear Lake, had to be extricated by Clear Lake Fire Department after being trapped inside the vehicle due to the rollover. Coles was transported to Mercy One North Iowa for non-life threatening injuries by Clear Lake Fire Medics.
The accident remains under investigation and charges are pending. The sheriff’s office says alcohol is suspected to have been a factor in the accident.
The Iowa State Patrol also assisted at the scene.