OfficerBlueThe crash occurred about 7:30 AM, according to KCRG. According to the Iowa State Patrol, Marjorie Hendrickson, age 60, was traveling north on Highway 62, south of 167th Street, in a 2008 Chrysler.
Officer Kelchen was a passenger in a second vehicle, a 2012 Buick, which was driven by his wife Tina. Their vehicle was traveling south on Highway 62, when Hendrickson’s vehicle crossed the center line and hit the Kelchen’s vehicle head-on.
Officer Kelchen died in the crash. His wife, Tina, and Hendrickson were both injured and transported to the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinic by helicopter. Their conditions have not been released.
In a Facebook post, the Cedar Rapids Police Department said:
“Our deepest sympathies and prayers to the Kelchen and Anamosa Police Department families on the tragic loss of Officer Mitch Kelchen who died in an automobile accident this morning.”
Officer Kelchen had previously worked for the Dyersville Police Department. He had been with the Anamosa Police Department for one year. Friends and co-workers described Officer Kelchen as “a hard worker”, “an all-around good guy”, and a “great police officer, friend, husband and father.”
The cause of the collision has not been released and it’s unknown if there may be any criminal charges in the case.
The Iowa State Police are conducting the investigation.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Anamosa Police Officer Mitchell Kelchen, both blood and blue. Godspeed, sir, we will take the watch from here. Thank you for your service.