On Friday, November 4, 2022, at 11:12pm, public safety personnel responded to the 1800 block of South 6th Street for a single vehicle crash. Upon arrival, first responders found a vehicle that had collided with a utility pole. The vehicle was severely damaged and on fire. There were four occupants in the vehicle. All four occupants died at the scene of this crash.
The names of the deceased are being released at this time. It is important to note the identities of the deceased have not been confirmed scientifically. The Iowa Office of State Medical Examiner is handling autopsy arrangements and formal identification processes. Scientific confirmation of identities will take several days. Based upon the circumstantial evidence we have at this time; the deceased have been identified as:
- Adrian Lara, age 13 of Marshalltown
- Isacc Lara, age 16 of Marshalltown
- Linette Lopez, age 15 of Marshalltown
- Yanitza Lopez, age 17 of Marshalltown
The police department is working closely with the Marshalltown Community School District to assure accurate and timely information is being shared in the community. We ask the public to respect the privacy of the families directly affected by this tragedy. Speculation and unconfirmed details being shared via social media can cause a great deal of harm. Chief Tupper stated, “Our hearts go out to the Lara and Lopez families. This is a tragedy for our entire community. We know the community will stand strong in support of everyone affected. That is the Marshalltown way. Please pray for comfort and peace for all involved.”
A candlelight vigil is being held for the crash victims and their families tonight at 6:30pm. The vigil is being held at St. Henry’s Church located at 211 West Olive Street in Marshalltown.
The circumstances that led up to this tragic event remain under investigation. The Iowa State Patrol has been contacted to assist with the crash investigation. Marshalltown Police Department personnel are investigating all circumstances and events that might have contributed to this motor vehicle crash. Anyone with information about this incident are asked to contact the police department at 641.754.5725. Tips may also be submitted anonymously by calling Marshall County Crime Stoppers at 641.753.1234 or via text by texting the word “marshall” followed by the tip to CRIMES (274637). Tips may also be submitted online at www.marshallcountycs.com.
The police department was assisted at this crash scene by the Iowa State Patrol, Marshalltown Fire Department, Unity Point Ambulance, Marshall County 911 Communications Center, and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.