CHARLES CITY, Iowa — A tragic collision on Wednesday morning claimed the life of a North Iowa woman after her motorcycle was struck by a semi-truck along U.S. Highway 18 East. The incident occurred shortly after 9 a.m. near mile marker 211, just outside of Charles City, according to the Iowa State Patrol (ISP).
Authorities say 66-year-old Ruby Golnick of Garner was traveling on a motorcycle when, for reasons still under investigation, she entered the path of an oncoming semi. The truck, driven by 24-year-old Navneet of Caledon, Ontario, Canada, was unable to avoid the collision. Golnick sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Emergency personnel from several agencies responded to the accident, including the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, Charles City Police Department, Floyd Fire Department, and AMR Ambulance. The scene was secured for several hours as investigators worked to piece together the events leading up to the deadly crash.
The Iowa State Patrol has not released additional details on how the collision occurred but confirmed that an investigation is ongoing. It is unclear whether speed, weather conditions, or driver error played a role in the incident. No injuries were reported for the semi-truck driver, and no charges have been filed at this time.
Ruby Golnick was a longtime resident of Garner, remembered by friends and neighbors as a warm and energetic woman who loved to ride motorcycles. Her death has sent shockwaves through her local community, where she was known for her friendly nature and love of adventure. Online tributes have begun to appear, with many expressing condolences and recalling fond memories.
As the community mourns, law enforcement officials urge drivers to remain vigilant on the road, particularly during the busy summer travel season. Anyone with additional information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Iowa State Patrol. Meanwhile, the Golnick family is expected to announce funeral arrangements in the coming days.
