The Iowa State Patrol confirmed that 20-year-old McKenna Mae Woodbeck of Huxley tragically lost her life in a UTV crash early Saturday morning in Wright County.
Authorities reported that the accident happened around 3:11 a.m. near the Boone River, close to Highway 3.
Investigators said that the driver, 21-year-old Levi Edward Rasmussen of Goldfield, was operating a John Deere Gator when he misjudged the distance near the riverbank.
The vehicle slid off the edge, plunging a significant distance into the water. Both Rasmussen and Woodbeck were thrown from the UTV during the impact.
According to the crash report, Woodbeck became trapped beneath the vehicle and died at the scene.
Rasmussen sustained injuries and was transported by Eagle Grove Ambulance to Iowa Specialty Hospital for treatment.
The Wright County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle Grove Police Department, Eagle Grove Ambulance, and Goldfield Fire Department assisted in responding to the crash.
The news of McKenna’s death has devastated her family, friends, and community.
Tributes have poured in across social media, honoring her vibrant spirit and kind heart.
McKenna’s fitness community at BMakFit remembered her dedication and drive. Her trainer shared,
“She was working toward her goals to get jacked with us. At the start, she told me to kick her ass in her program, but now she’s the one kicking mine. I have no doubt she’s already crushing every one of her goals in Heaven. You’ll be so deeply missed, McKenna.”
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Former teacher and family friend Chelsie Konecne described the heartbreaking loss:
“Grief. Shock. Sadness. And above all, a deep ache that someone so young, so full of life and possibility, is simply… gone. Her sassy spunk was my favorite. It hurts to imagine that her story has ended far too soon.”
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Loved ones remembered her as someone who brought light and laughter into their lives.
Leland Williams shared, “Fly high Angel. Jaxson and I will always love and miss you.”
Others described her as a “beautiful and sweet soul” who always supported those around her.
Family member Lisa Linn Akridge expressed her grief, writing,
“You had so much life to live yet and dreams to accomplish. My heart is broken and hurts for your parents, siblings, and the rest of our family and friends left behind to carry on your memory.”
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McKenna Woodbeck’s death has left a deep void in her community.
At just 20 years old, she was remembered as a supportive friend, a dedicated student, and a young woman filled with ambition and energy.
While the circumstances of the accident are still under investigation, her loved ones continue to honor her memory and celebrate the impact she made in their lives.
