Vandalia Man and Iowa Man and Woman Die Following Two Car Crash on US Highway 54 in Mexico

A Vandalia man and 2 Iowa residents are dead following a 2 car crash on the US Highway 54 bypass in Mexico yesterday (Monday) afternoon.

According to Mexico Public Safety it happened around 1:20 about 1 mile south of East Liberty.

Responding personnel found that a 2004 Buick, driven by 82 year old David W. Brenneke of Iowa was traveling eastbound on the bypass when it crossed the centerline and hit a 2007 Acura which was driven westbound by 20 year old Cole D. Grimes of Vandalia.

Mexico Public Safety used extrication equipment to remove Grimes from his car and he was treated by staff from the Audrain Ambulance District.

An MU Staff For Life helicopter responded however Grimes was pronounced dead at the scene before he could be transported to the hospital.

David W. Brenneke and his passenger 85 year old Joyce A. Brenneke of Iowa were both found to be dead prior to emergency responded arrival.

The bypass was closed and traffic detoured until around 3pm.

The crash is still under investigation.