Crash Report – Sycamore Road, alcohol believed to be a factor

Key Takeaways:

• Single-vehicle crash occurred on Sycamore Road north of 9th Road.
• Driver identified as 27-year-old Bryce P. Kessler of Walkerton.
• Vehicle ran off the road, ending up on railroad property.
• Alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor.
• Driver sustained a head injury and was transported to Memorial Hospital.

Early Morning Accident on Sycamore Road

In the early hours of January 1, 2025, a single-vehicle accident on Sycamore Road north of 9th Road in Marshall County resulted in serious injuries to the driver. At precisely 1:13 a.m., the Marshall County Central Dispatch received an automated collision alert from a cell phone located near the crash site.

Vehicle Leaves Roadway and Lands on Railroad Property

First responders arriving at the scene discovered that a 2021 Kia passenger car had veered off the roadway. The vehicle had gone over an embankment and descended a steep slope, ultimately coming to rest on railroad property. The unusual path of the car raised immediate concerns about the severity of the incident and the condition of the driver.

Driver Identified and Injured

The sole occupant of the vehicle was identified as Bryce P. Kessler, a 27-year-old resident of Walkerton. Kessler was found inside the car, having sustained a head injury as a result of the collision. Emergency medical personnel from Plymouth Fire provided immediate assistance at the scene.

Medical Transport and Condition

Following on-site treatment, Kessler was transported to Memorial Hospital by Plymouth Fire for further medical evaluation. The extent of his injuries has not been disclosed, but head injuries are considered serious and require prompt medical attention.

Investigation and Suspected Alcohol Involvement

Authorities have indicated that alcohol is believed to have been a contributing factor in the crash. “The collision is still under investigation, but alcohol is believed to have been a factor,” the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department stated. Upon completion of the investigation, a case report will be submitted to the Marshall County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

Agencies Responding to the Incident

The response to the accident involved multiple agencies, including the Marshall County Police, Plymouth Fire, and Reichert’s Towing. Their coordinated efforts ensured that the scene was secured, the driver received necessary medical care, and the vehicle was safely removed from the railroad property.

Legal Considerations and Presumption of Innocence

Readers are reminded that any charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is merely an allegation of wrongdoing. Individuals are presumed innocent throughout the legal proceedings and are entitled to representation by counsel. They have the right to a trial by jury, during which the State must provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt can be made.