CLINTON COUNTY, IA – July 13, 2025 — Shannone R. Mitchell, 51, has been identified as the victim in a fatal crash that occurred on July 8, 2025, in Clinton County, Iowa. The accident, involving a two-vehicle collision, took place around 1:46 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 136 and 380th Avenue, and has left the community mourning the loss of a beloved individual.
According to the Iowa State Patrol, Mitchell was driving a southbound Oldsmobile Alero on 380th Avenue when she failed to stop at a posted stop sign. As she entered the intersection, her vehicle was struck by a Ford Flex traveling on Highway 136, driven by 31-year-old Riley Reed.
Details of the Crash: Impact and Immediate Response
The crash caused significant damage to both vehicles, and emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene to assist. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders, Shannone Mitchell succumbed to the injuries she sustained in the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Riley Reed, the driver of the Ford Flex, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Reed’s injuries are not expected to be serious, and he is expected to recover from the incident.
Investigation: Cause of the Crash and Contributing Factors
The Iowa State Patrol conducted a preliminary investigation and confirmed that the failure to obey the stop sign was a key factor in the crash. However, authorities have not released additional details regarding other possible contributing factors, such as the speed of the vehicles or whether distracted driving or mechanical issues played a role.
Law enforcement officials are continuing to investigate the sequence of events that led to the collision, and they are working with the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office to gather further evidence. Witnesses to the crash or individuals who may have seen the moments leading up to it are encouraged to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Safety Concerns: Dangers of Rural Intersections
This tragic accident has drawn attention to the dangers of rural intersections, where traffic control signs can sometimes be overlooked or missed, particularly in areas with limited visibility. Local authorities often remind drivers to exercise extra caution when approaching intersections and to come to a complete stop at stop signs to prevent deadly accidents.
The intersection of Highway 136 and 380th Avenue is a rural area, and speeding or failure to stop at stop signs can be especially dangerous. Local officials have stressed the importance of driver vigilance and following traffic laws to help reduce the risk of such tragic collisions.
Community Impact: Grieving a Tragic Loss
The community of Clinton County is left in deep mourning following the sudden and unexpected loss of Shannone Mitchell. Neighbors and friends who knew her have described her as kind-hearted and well-liked, with many expressing shock and disbelief at the tragic events.
“Shannone was a wonderful person, and her passing has left a huge hole in our community,” said one local resident. “She will be missed by all who knew her.”
The details of Mitchell’s background and family have not yet been publicly released, but the tragic loss is being deeply felt by her loved ones. The community has come together to offer support and condolences during this difficult time.
Ongoing Investigation: Seeking Answers and Preventing Future Accidents
The Iowa State Patrol continues to investigate the incident, with hopes of determining the full cause of the collision and whether any safety improvements may be necessary at the intersection where the crash occurred. Local officials have pledged to continue their work and seek answers in the wake of this tragic event.
The investigation is also expected to lead to a review of road safety protocols and whether further measures, such as traffic signals, signage, or speed limits, could be implemented to prevent similar accidents in the future.