MASON CITY — Two men were treated for injuries Thursday afternoon following a single-vehicle accident involving a collision with railroad tracks, according to the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred at approximately 4:04 PM on March 19, 2026, near the intersection of 300th Street and Orchid Avenue. Investigators report that Ray Oppman, 52, of Belmond, was traveling east on 300th Street in a 2000 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS.
While traversing a curve toward the railroad tracks, the vehicle reportedly experienced mechanical issues, causing Oppman to lose control. The car veered off the road onto the south shoulder before continuing eastbound and running over the Union Pacific railroad tracks.
Emergency responders from the Mason City Fire Department treated Ray Oppman at the scene for leg pain. He was subsequently transported to the MercyOne ER by ambulance for further evaluation. A passenger in the vehicle, Frank Oppman, 59, of Mason City, was treated for minor injuries on-site but declined further medical transport.
Authorities confirmed that seatbelts were in use at the time of the crash and airbags were successfully deployed. The Iowa State Patrol assisted the Sheriff’s Office at the scene. The accident remains under investigation.