Semi Hauling Cattle Wrecks Avoiding Oncoming Vehicle, Two Cows Perish, Both Drivers Injured in Chickasaw County

Two cows died after a semi and livestock trailer wrecked trying to avoid a head-on collision with another vehicle northwest of New Hampton Saturday (03.28) morning.

Chickasaw County Sheriff Ryan Shawver says the initial 911 call came in at about 9:45 am, regarding an accident just south of North Washington. Brad Neisen of Evansdale was driving a 2005 Honda Pilot north on Gilmore Avenue when he lost control of the vehicle, which then entered the southbound lane and into the path of the semi driven by Tracy Kleckner of Osage.

Kleckner attempted to avoid colliding with the Niesen vehicle, causing the semi and livestock trailer to end up on its side in the ditch.  Shawver says the semi was hauling 28 head of beef cattle, with two dying as a result of the crash.  The remaining 26 cattle were transferred to another semi and trailer.  

Both drivers sustained minor injuries.

According to the Chickasaw County Emergency Management Agency, a coordinated recovery was performed by the North Washington Fire Department, Chickasaw County Rescue Squad, Chickasaw County Sheriff’s Department, Chickasaw County EMS, Wayne’s Towing, and many local farmers who came out to help.

**picture courtesy Chickasaw County EMA