Three Injured in Two-Vehicle Crash Near Montrose; Highway 61 Temporarily Closed

Three people were injured in a two-vehicle crash Monday afternoon near Montrose, according to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

Emergency responders were dispatched to the crash at approximately 2:17 p.m. on February 9, 2026, at the intersection of Highway 61 and 255th Street, just north of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities say all three individuals involved in the crash were from outside the area and sustained injuries.

Due to the nature of the incident, Highway 61 was temporarily shut down to allow first responders to safely manage the scene and to permit both MedForce and Air Evac medical helicopters to land on the roadway. The highway was later reopened once the scene was deemed safe for travel.

The Sheriff’s Office noted the incident highlighted strong coordination among local and regional emergency agencies, with the scene processed quickly and efficiently.

Agencies assisting at the scene included the Fort Madison Fire Department, Montrose Fire Department, Des Moines Township Fire Department, Rairden’s Towing, Dunkin Towing, Lee County EMS, LeeComm, the Iowa Department of Transportation, and area law enforcement personnel.

Officials thanked the public for their patience and cooperation during the temporary road closure. The crash remains under investigation, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.