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Fatal crash investigation ongoing, no charges at this time

T-R PHOTO BY ADAM SODDERS — The intersection of West Main Street and 13th Street near Franklin Elementary was the site of tragedy last week, and is one of the many busy intersections in Marshalltown.

Marshalltown Police Chief Mike Tupper said the investigation into a car accident that killed second-grader Christian Maxon last week is ongoing.

“I would anticipate it will take us a few more days to wrap that up,” Tupper said. “We haven’t had any discussion about charges at this point.”

Police reported Marilyn Diggins, 71, as the driver who hit Maxon the afternoon of May 15.

Tupper said information gathered by police will be taken to the Marshall County Attorney’s office where next steps will be decided.

Street safety

Last week’s tragedy took place during the busy minutes after school got out, but regardless of where, when or how, Tupper said all people using public roadways and walkways should watch out for other people.

He gave some general tips for anyone using the city’s roadways, sidewalks, intersections and other places where people and vehicles go.

“I think that the number one thing is we all have to maintain awareness of our surroundings,” Tupper said. “We want to minimize the distractions in the vehicle or even when we’re out walking.”

While distracted driving has been the focus of many recent public safety campaigns, Tupper said many walkers also scroll while they stroll.

“We always recommend being extra vigilant when you’re in a school zone, especially during drop off and pick up,” Tupper said. “It’s always important to be extra vigilant and careful, drive slowly.”

For pedestrians, he said the basic rule of looking both ways before crossing a street is essential.

In today’s busy world, Tupper said many people in cars, riding motorcycles and bikes or walking are in a hurry to get where they are going. He said it’s important people give themselves plenty of time to get where they need to go so they don’t feel rushed.

A GoFundMe for Maxon family’s can be reached at https://www.gofundme.com/christianmaxon and donations are being taken at Jeff Linton’s State Farm Office.

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Contact Adam Sodders at

641-753-6611 or

asodders@timesrepublican.com

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