A devastating head-on crash on Interstate 380 in Black Hawk County claimed the lives of three people Monday evening, bringing traffic to a standstill and leaving multiple families grieving. The Iowa State Patrol confirmed the fatal collision happened during the late afternoon hours on a busy stretch of highway east of Gilbertville.
The victims were identified as Judy Fisher, 68, and Jessica Fisher, 45, both of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Thomas Sidler, 63, of Robertsdale, Alabama. Authorities said the crash occurred at approximately 4:05 p.m. on southbound Interstate 380, a major north-south roadway frequently used by commuters and travelers moving between Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, and surrounding communities.
According to the Iowa State Patrol, Sidler was driving a pickup truck northbound on Interstate 380 when the vehicle crossed the median for reasons that remain unknown. Troopers said the pickup entered the southbound lanes and struck a Toyota RAV4 head-on. The SUV was being driven by Judy Fisher, with Jessica Fisher riding as a passenger.
The impact of the collision was severe, causing both vehicles to leave the roadway. Authorities said the pickup truck and the SUV came to rest off the southbound lanes of the interstate. Emergency crews responding to the scene described extensive damage, highlighting the force involved in the crash.
First responders arrived quickly but found that all three occupants had suffered fatal injuries. The Iowa State Patrol confirmed that both drivers and the passenger were pronounced dead at the scene. Officials also noted that all individuals involved were wearing seat belts, a detail that underscores how violent the crash was despite safety measures being in place.
At this time, investigators have not released information explaining why the pickup crossed the median. Troopers said they are examining multiple factors, including vehicle movement, roadway conditions, possible mechanical issues, and medical factors. Authorities emphasized that no conclusions have been reached and the investigation remains active.
Several agencies assisted at the scene, including the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office, Gilbertville Police Department, Gilbertville Fire Department, Waterloo Fire Department, and Evandale Emergency Medical Services. Interstate 380 was impacted for a period of time while crews worked to clear debris and document evidence. Officials expressed condolences to the victims’ families and urged drivers to remain alert at all times, noting that even a brief loss of control on high-speed highways can lead to tragic consequences.
