FAYETTE, IOWA – This Northern Iowa man crashed his pickup truck in a creek, snatched up his meth and fled the scene despite being injured and potentially drunk, but didn’t count on cops bringing their drone to the party.
On May 27, 2025, at approximately 7:26 AM, the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call regarding a blue 2009 Chevrolet K1500 Silverado truck in the ditch along Highway 150 near 118th Street, approximately three miles south of Fayette, Iowa. After further investigation, it was found that the Chevrolet was northbound when it went into the west ditch and into a small creek. The Chevrolet received minimal damage. Additionally, it was reported that the injured driver had fled the scene.
Shortly after the report, deputies were on scene and put a drone in the air. The driver was located hiding behind trees and was apprehended. The suspect was identified as Dale Patrick Winter, age 58 of West Union, Iowa. Winter was found in possession of illegal substances and was arrested and charged with:
– Possession of a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine – 3rd/Subsequent (D Felony)
– Possession of a Controlled Substance – Marijuana – 3rd/Subsequent (Aggravated Misdemeanor)
– Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Simple Misdemeanor)
– Possession with intent to Deliver (B Felony)
– Operating While Intoxicated – 3rd Offense (D Felony)
– Failure to Maintain Control (Simple Misdemeanor)
Winter was treated for his injuries and transported to the Fayette County Jail where he awaits an initial appearance from a Magistrate Judge.
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Iowa State Patrol, Fayette Ambulance, Fayette Fire Department, and Maynard Fire Department.
