HANCOCK COUNTY — A two-vehicle collision on an ice-covered stretch of Highway 18 claimed two lives and sent two others to the hospital early Wednesday morning.
The Iowa State Patrol reported the accident occurred at approximately 4:37 a.m. on March 4, 2026, about a quarter-mile east of Oak Avenue. According to the crash summary, a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 46-year-old Angel Ruiz-Tamayo of Clarion, was traveling westbound on Highway 18. At the same time, a 2013 Kia Sorento, driven by 51-year-old Jason Foell of Britt, was traveling eastbound.
Investigators determined that the Silverado lost control on the ice-covered roadway, causing it to strike the Sorento broadside. Both vehicles were later towed from the scene by Britt Auto.
The accident resulted in two fatalities and two injuries:
Angel Ruiz-Tamayo (46, Clarion, IA): The driver of the Silverado was fatally injured. Records indicate he was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
Constantino Cruz Barradas (40, Goodell, Iowa): A rear-seat passenger in the Silverado was also fatally injured. Reports show he was not wearing a seatbelt.
Tomas San Juan Ruiz (41, Belmond, Iowa): A front-seat passenger in the Silverado sustained injuries and was transported to MercyOne North Iowa by Garner Ambulance. His seatbelt was credited with saving his life.
Jason Foell (51, Britt, Iowa): The driver of the Sorento was also injured and transported to MercyOne North Iowa. His seatbelt was also noted as a life-saving factor.
The victims who passed away were transported to the State Medical Examiner’s office by Cataldo Funeral Home.
The Iowa State Patrol was assisted at the scene by several local agencies, including, the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office, Garner Fire and Ambulance, Clear Lake Police Department and Ambulance and the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash remains under investigation by the Iowa State Patrol.