IOWA — A construction zone crash along Interstate 80 left a Marion woman with serious injuries after she was struck by a work vehicle late Tuesday morning.
According to an Iowa State Patrol crash report, the incident happened around 10:45 a.m. in the westbound lanes of I-80 near mile marker 254, an active construction area east of Iowa City.
Troopers said a 2021 Mack truck, driven by 62-year-old John G. Sueper of Cedar Rapids, was backing up toward other construction equipment when it hit a worker who was on foot behind the vehicle.
The worker was identified as 43-year-old Stephanie D. Owens of Marion. She suffered serious injuries from the impact and was quickly treated at the scene before being transported by Johnson County Ambulance to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
Authorities said no other workers or vehicles were involved in the incident. Traffic in the westbound construction zone slowed as emergency crews responded, but no closures were reported.
The Iowa State Patrol is leading the investigation. They were assisted by West Branch police and fire personnel, who responded to secure the scene and assist with emergency care.
Construction zones along I-80 have experienced heightened activity this year due to multiple infrastructure and repair projects, prompting state officials to emphasize safety protocols for both workers and motorists. While the crash remains under investigation, officials have not announced whether citations will be issued.
Work zone safety continues to be a concern across Iowa as transportation crews operate in high-traffic areas. Earlier this year, the Iowa Department of Transportation urged drivers to remain alert and reduce speeds in active construction areas.
Further updates on Owens' condition or the investigation are expected as more information becomes available.
Originally reported by Iowa's News Now Staff in Iowa's News Now.
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