A 54-year-old western Iowa man died this week, trying to get help for his 85-year-old mother. A search began after the two did not make a doctor appointment Tuesday. A Harrison County deputy discovered the wreckage of a vehicle in a deep ravine just after 11 p.m.
Helen Elhert, who was found inside the vehicle, told authorities she was driving the Jeep when it slid off the road in Harrison County, near Woodbine. Elhert’s son, Fred, told her to stay in the Jeep and he’d go for help.
Deputies found Fred Elhert about 100 feet from the Jeep, face down in a small creek. Authorities suspect the strong winds and blowing snow on Tuesday made it difficult for Fred Elhert to see where he was going. Wind chills reached 18 degrees below zero. Fred Elhert was a retired third grade teacher. His mother, Helen, is in the hospital in fair condition. An autopsy is scheduled for Fred Elhert’s body.