RURAL FAYETTE COUNTY, IOWA – Authorities say a Northern Iowa teen was texting on a phone as he drove his Ford Fusion when he slammed into the back a stopped motorist, causing both vehicles to be totaled.
On January 31, 2025, at approximately 4:06 PM; the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office received multiple 911 calls regarding a two-vehicle accident at 15197 230th Street near West Union, Iowa.
Upon arrival of law enforcement, it was learned that a 1999 Ford Ranger driven by 22-year-old Mariela Coronel Mejia of Fredericksburg, Iowa, had slowed down and stopped to turn into the farm drive when a 2013 Ford Fusion driven by 19-year-old Caleb Ray Fawcett of Sumner, Iowa, rear-ended the stopped Ranger.
As a result of the crash, Mejia was cited for fail to provide proof of financial liability – Accident.
Fawcett was cited for Using an electronic device. Records show he may only owe $135.50 to Iowa courts for his deed.
Both vehicles are considered a total loss.
No injuries were reported during the accident.
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the West Union Police Department, Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance, Hawkeye Fire Department, Tieskoetter Collison, and Torkelson Motors. This accident remains under investigation.
(TOP PHOTO of totaled vehicle via the sheriff’s office.)