POLK COUNTY – The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a single vehicle crash that killed two men on December 23rd. A press release indicates a vehicle fire was reported on Highway 65 near Pleasant Hill, and first responders found a fully engulfed car upon arrival. Sean Pattschull of Norwalk and Nicholas Chescher of Fontana, California, were pronounced dead on scene. Police believe a combination of excessive speed, wet roadways, and foggy conditions may have contributed.

CEDAR RAPIDS – Two men were arrested in Cedar Rapids following a chase. KCRG-TV reports Michael Redenbaugh and Jon Paul Hampshire were in a van that police attempted to stop Wednesday morning. Redenbaugh was allegedly driving and fled, causing a pursuit to ensue in Cedar Rapids neighborhoods.

IOWA – Traffic fatalities remain well above the five year average across the state. The Iowa State Patrol reports 372 people have died on the state’s roadways since January 1st, up 13% from the five-year average. The patrol attributes the increase to speeding violations on the rise, a lack of seat belt use, and more driving while distracted by electronic devices.