GLENWOOD, IA — A tragic collision on a rural stretch of Highway 34 in western Iowa claimed the lives of two Hawaii residents and left four others injured, including three children. The crash occurred around 4 p.m. on Friday, June 6, near the town of Glenwood in Mills County, according to the Iowa State Patrol.
The victims, identified as 62-year-old Ralph Schultz and 66-year-old Perla Schultz, were from Ewa Beach, Hawaii. Authorities say the couple was traveling in a vehicle that was attempting to turn onto Highway 34 from 195th Street when it was struck by an oncoming bus. The impact of the crash was devastating. Emergency crews pronounced both Ralph and Perla dead at the scene.
The bus, which was carrying children, also sustained damage during the crash. The bus driver and three children were injured but are expected to recover. All were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, and fortunately, their injuries were described as minor. The children have since been reunited with their families. Officials have not released the purpose of the bus trip but confirmed it was not a public transit vehicle.
First responders from Glenwood and nearby communities rushed to the scene. They provided aid, secured the area, and helped with the initial investigation. The incident brought significant concern to residents in both Iowa and Hawaii, where the Schultzes were known for their kindness and love of travel. Friends and neighbors in Ewa Beach expressed shock and sadness, remembering the couple as warm, friendly, and full of life.
Local officials in Glenwood noted that the intersection of Highway 34 and 195th Street has been a site of concern due to traffic flow and visibility issues. While serious accidents in the area are rare, this incident has raised renewed calls for reviewing safety measures at rural intersections. Investigators are currently looking into road conditions, vehicle speeds, and whether driver error contributed to the collision.
The Iowa State Patrol continues to gather information and has asked anyone who witnessed the crash to come forward. As both communities grieve, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the risks that come with traveling on busy highways and the importance of exercising caution, especially at intersections.
