Neighbor Remembers Amish 16-Year-Old Elmer Borntrager, Killed In Hit-And-Run. And: Suspect’s Vehicle Found
Following up on the recent hit-and-run buggy crash in Clarke County, Iowa, a local station spoke with neighbors of the young man killed in the wreck. One of them provided more details on what happened, and a bit about the young man, Elmer Borntrager.
Also, it sounds like there is good news, for lack of a better description: the suspect’s vehicle has been located. However, no arrest had been announced at the time of publication. More on that below.
But first, more details from the neighbor. We don’t know from the report if the neighbor is a member of the Amish community or not. In any case, it’s someone who knew the victim. From WHO 13:
Sixteen-year-old Elmer Borntragger was killed Wednesday evening in rural Clarke County. The crash took place on 130th Avenue, just south of the intersection with Forest Street.
The Amish community is now grieving. One of the victim’s neighbors spoke off camera with WHO 13 News. He said Elmer was a good kid and that he enjoyed spending time with the teenager.
The neighbor said he wished the driver stopped and called 911 instead of leaving Elmer in a ditch. A different neighbor called police, but it was too late to save the boy.
The horse was also injured, but it is expected to survive.
No telling if action by the driver may have helped save Elmer. There’s no suggestion here as to how much time elapsed between the crash and the 911 call coming in from the neighbor. Just awful. But perhaps the driver will soon be found.
Hit & Run Suspect’s Vehicle Found
One reason to think that the driver will be found is that his or her vehicle was located last week. The vehicle had been ID’ed as a silver or gray Chevrolet or GM sedan.
It’s not directly stated, but it sounds like a tip from the public may have helped find it. More from WHO 13:
On Thursday afternoon, the CCSO said law enforcement followed each tip provided by the public, and the vehicle has been located. It is being processed for evidence.
Interviews are being conducted as part of the continuing investigation.
No information about the possible driver of the vehicle has been released by law enforcement.
If they’ve found the vehicle, it seems an arrest should be on the way, though it’s been a few days since this report went public. Let’s hope that announcement happens soon.
Suspect’s Car Found
Yes, sooner rather than later is always preferable. Prayers for the boy’s family and community. Can’t even imagine the heartbreak they must be suffering right now. ☮️