Community mourns death of 17-year-old Panorama student in car crash

A tragic two-vehicle collision in Panora, Iowa this past weekend resulted in the loss of one teenage life and injuries to three individuals. The victim, 17-year-old Savannah Nicole Matthias from Guthrie Center, was fatally injured in the accident that occurred near the junction of Highway 44 and Willow Avenue. The crash was caused when Matthias, driving west in a 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, failed to navigate a curve, crossed the centerline, and collided with an eastbound 2016 Ford F-250 driven by 37-year-old Noelle Elizabeth Bubeck from Redfield. Sadly, Matthias was declared deceased at the scene, while Bubeck and an 11-year-old passenger sustained minor injuries and were transported to the hospital. Another 10-year-old passenger in the truck suffered serious injuries and was flown to UnityPoint Des Moines. The community was deeply saddened by the accident, especially since it occurred right before the Homecoming festivities for Panorama Community School District, where Matthias was a beloved senior known for her positive attitude and kindness to all. The school held a memorial service in her honor, attended by around 200 local residents, showcasing the strong support and unity within the community during times of tragedy. She will be remembered through a roadside memorial displaying photos, crosses, and flowers, as her family and the community mourn her untimely passing.