One Person Killed in Snowmobile Accident Near Loyal
Monday, February 13th, 2017 -- 11:22 AM
-On Sunday February 12th 2017, at about 6:45 AM, the Clark County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call of a snowmobile accident located north east of Catlin Ave/STH 98 in the Township of Sherman.Initial investigation indicates that a snowmobile being operated by Steven D. Lauenstein 46 yrs. old, was traveling west on a snowmobile trail. Steven lost control of the snowmobile after entering a wooded area and rolled it on top of himself. The passenger, Robert N. Kurz 34 yrs. old, was ejected from the snowmobile and died from his injuries. Robert lived in the city of Loyal and Steven lives just outside the city of Loyal.
Steven and Robert were both wearing helmets and were both transported to the St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield. Robert was pronounced dead at the hospital by Clark County Coroner Richard Schleifer.
The Department of Natural Resources, Spencer Area Ambulance and Fire Department, Spencer First Responders, Clark County Sheriff's Office, Spirit Air and ground units and the Clark County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene. The Clark County Sheriff’s Office and DNR is continuing the investigation into the crash. This is the second snowmobile fatality for Clark County in 2017.
Speed and alcohol are believed to be a factors in the accident.
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.