Local teen killed in crash
Posted: 02.14.2009 at 3:49 PM
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MONROE COUNTY, IOWA -- A two car crash in Monroe County, Iowa, claims the life of a local teen.

According to the Iowa State Patrol the crash happened Friday afternoon around 5 p.m. on Highway 34 one mile east of Albia, Iowa. Delaney Palen, 18, of Ottumwa was westbound on Highway 34 when she lost control of her vehicle and crossed the center line.

Palen's vehicle slid sideways into the eastbound lane and was struck on the passenger side by a vehicle driven by 33-year-old Melissa Thompson of Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

Authorities say the weather and road conditions may have contributed to the crash.

The passenger in Palen's car, 19-year-old Zachary Murray of Ottumwa was killed in the crash. Palen was injured and was transported to a hospital in Des Moines.

Melissa Thompson and a passenger in her vehicle also suffered injuries. They were both taken to Monroe County Hospital.