Tragic Intersection: A Heartbreaking Tale of Lives Lost in a Preventable Crash

In a devastating turn of events, a routine Sunday night took a tragic turn in Polk County, Iowa, leaving three lives lost and a community in mourning. The accident, which occurred when a 16-year-old driver failed to stop at a stop sign, has shattered the lives of those involved and serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety.

A Preventable Tragedy That Shook a Community

The Fateful Intersection

The events that unfolded on that fateful Sunday night began with 16-year-old Chad Dittmer driving northbound. Tragically, Dittmer failed to stop at a stop sign, colliding with a vehicle driven by 34-year-old Sara Tourte, who was accompanied by 38-year-old Kolby Drees. The impact of the collision was devastating, and all three individuals lost their lives at the scene.The news of the accident quickly spread through the community, leaving loved ones and neighbors in a state of shock and disbelief. For the Dittmer family, the loss of their beloved son, Chad, was a devastating blow that they are still struggling to come to terms with.

The Aftermath: A Family in Mourning

Paige Dittmer, Chad's sister, recounted the heartbreaking moment when she and her mother arrived at the scene. "I was broken. I dropped to the ground, kind of just panicked," she said, describing the unimaginable sight of Chad's unrecognizable car. The family is now grappling with the immense grief and the void left by Chad's sudden and tragic passing.Paige described her brother as a caring, compassionate, and driven young man who was always eager to learn new things and lend a helping hand to his family. "He brought a lot, he has been such a strong shoulder to lean on," she said, highlighting the profound impact Chad had on those around him.

Honoring Chad's Legacy

In the aftermath of the accident, the Dittmer family has set up a memorial fund at Veridian Credit Union, where people can donate directly to the "Paige Dittmer Memorial Fund" to support the family during this difficult time. Additionally, a candlelight vigil is planned at North Polk High School on September 29th, where the community can come together to remember Chad and the other victims of the crash.The tragedy has left an indelible mark on the community, and the Dittmer family is determined to ensure that Chad's legacy lives on. They want to remember him as a helpful and driven young man who always put his family first. As the community gathers to mourn the loss of these three lives, it is a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the devastating consequences that can arise from a momentary lapse in judgment.