DES MOINES, IA (IRN) – The last carrier of individual health insurance policies in most of Iowa may leave. Medica announced Wednesday that its ability to stay in the Iowa insurance market “is in question at this point.” Aetna and Wellmark Blue Cross & Blue Shield have already left. The Des Moines Register reports that the carriers’ exits would not affect Iowans who obtain insurance through their employers or through a government program. It could, however, leave more than 70,000 Iowans who buy their own coverage without any options for next year.
BURLINGTON, IA (IRN) – A narcotics search warrant led to an arrest Tuesday in Burlington, according to WQAD-TV. Over five pounds of crystal meth, six grams of marijuana, two grams of ecstasy, and a loaded handgun that had been reported stolen were among the items recovered. The meth is estimated to have a street value of close to $160,000. 35-year-old Carlos Jermain Walls faces multiple charges.
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA (IRN) – The body of Sheriff’s Deputy Mark Burbridge, who was killed in the line of duty on Monday, was returned home to Pottawattamie County Tuesday. KETV reports the community lined the streets and interstate overpasses to show their support for the motorcade that escorted the deputy’s body from the medical examiner’s office in Ankeny to Council Bluffs. Memorial services are still being planned.
MADISON COUNTY, IA (IRN) – A third person has been arrested and charged Tuesday in the Madison County bridge arson case. KCCI-TV reports 19-year-old Alivia Bergmann of Des Moines was arrested in South Carolina. Bergmann admitted to helping set the fire. 18-year-old Joel Davis and 17-year-old Alexander Hoff have also been charged. Deputies say the arson was Hoff’s idea and that he wanted to burn the bridge after he and a girlfriend broke up because it held significant memories.
BUENA VISTA COUNTY, IA (IRN) – Police in northwest Iowa are investigating a case of suspected arson. The Storm Lake Pilot Tribune reports someone set fire to construction equipment that was used to build the Bakken oil pipeline near Newell in Buena Vista County.
EARTH (IRN) – The annual Eta Aquarid (AY-tuh ACK-wuh-rid) meteor shower will peak this week. While the shower is predicted to end May 28, the best time for viewing will be Friday or Saturday morning, just before dawn. As many as 30 meteors per hour can be expected. Astronomers say Iowans should look toward the southern horizon.