Spencer crash on County Road B24 claims life of Spencer man, injures two
In Clay County, Iowa, a devastating head-on collision took place on Tuesday morning, November 4, 2025, around 7:23 a.m. on County Road B24 near 190th Avenue, just west of Spencer. The crash claimed the life of a local man and left two others — including a 5-year-old child — seriously injured.
The Iowa State Patrol (ISP) confirmed that the victim was Ryan Cundiff, 35, of Spencer. Cundiff was driving a 2017 Chevrolet Traverse westbound on County Road B24 when the crash occurred. The other vehicle, a 2014 GMC Acadia, was being driven eastbound by Gabriel Campbell, 20, of Hartley, Iowa. Inside Campbell’s vehicle was his 5-year-old child, who was seated in the backseat.
According to the ISP report, the collision happened when Cundiff’s Chevrolet Traverse crossed the center line of County Road B24 and struck Campbell’s GMC Acadia head-on. The impact was described as severe, with both vehicles suffering catastrophic front-end damage.
Emergency responders from the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, Spencer Ambulance Service, and the Spencer Fire Department rushed to the scene. Despite their efforts, Ryan Cundiff was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. Gabriel Campbell and his 5-year-old passenger were both transported to Spencer Hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the crash. Early findings suggest that weather conditions were clear at the time, and there were no immediate signs of impairment or road hazards. The Iowa State Patrol continues to analyze data from the crash site, including vehicle positioning, skid marks, and mechanical inspections of both vehicles. Toxicology reports are pending as part of standard procedure in fatal incidents.
Community members in Spencer and Hartley have expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. Ryan Cundiff, 35, was known locally for his hardworking nature and dedication to his family. Friends described him as kind, humble, and always willing to lend a hand to others. His sudden passing has left the community mourning a life taken too soon.
Gabriel Campbell, meanwhile, is a young father and a resident of Hartley. Neighbors and friends have rallied around him and his family as he recovers from his injuries. His child, who was properly restrained in a child safety seat, is expected to recover after receiving medical treatment.
Residents living near County Road B24 have voiced concern about the safety of the roadway, noting that it has narrow lanes and few safety barriers separating oncoming traffic. Some have called for additional center-line rumble strips or reflective markings to help prevent future head-on collisions.
Officials have used the incident as a solemn reminder of the importance of attentiveness while driving, especially on rural two-lane highways where driver distraction or brief lapses in focus can have devastating consequences.
As the Iowa State Patrol continues its investigation, the Clay County community has come together to honor the memory of Ryan Cundiff. Friends, family, and neighbors have organized a candlelight vigil at a local park in Spencer, celebrating his life and supporting his loved ones.
The tragic accident on County Road B24 has deeply affected everyone involved — a reminder of how fragile life can be and how quickly tragedy can strike even on familiar roads. While authorities work to uncover what led to the crash, the Spencer and Hartley communities continue to unite in grief, prayer, and hope for recovery for those who survived.