Car collision on Highway 163

Iowa State Patrol Squad Car

Bertha Terpstra,65, of Pella and Denise Beaver,33, of Ottumwa were involved in a mix up with a school bus early last Thursday at the intersection of HWY 163 and 185th St. Terpstra,driving a Chrysler 2000 Town & Country, was attempting to cross HWY 163 at 185th street.

Beaver, driving a 2002 Saturn VUE, was west bound in the left lane on HWY 163 and observed Terpstra in the right lane moving slowly to the crossover. Terpstra failed to see Denise being distracted by a school bus east bound to the crossover. Beaver swerved to the left and braked while striking Terpstra in the front left corner causing it to rotate and enter the north ditch at a final rest. Beaver left the crossover into the median and re-entered the left lane where it came to rest.

Both were transported by ambulance to Pella Regional Hospital where their condition remains unknown. Terpstra was charged with failure to wear/maintain a safety belt.