Woman killed in Beaverdale neighborhood crash, police investigate

DES MOINES, Iowa -- Police say they are investigating a fatal early morning crash in Des Moines's Beaverdale Neighborhood. The Des Moines Police Departments Traffic Unit says just before 7:30 a.m., officers and Des Moines Fire Department rescue personnel were called to the intersection of Beaver Avenue and Hickman Road to investigate a vehicle crash. After reviewing witness statements and scene evidence, Des Moines Police says the preliminary investigation indicates a Dodge pickup was heading south on Beaver Avenue when it struck a Toyota SUV that had been traveling west on Hickman Road. The Traffic Unit says evidence shows the Toyota failed to yield to a traffic control red signal. A passenger in the pickup truck was injured in the crash and transported to the hospital by DMFD medics. Authorities say that despite advanced care, the 70-year-old woman later died. No further details regarding the victim or other involved persons have been released at this time. Authorities say the DMPD Traffic Unit continues its investigation into the crash, and the Polk County Attorney's Office is reviewing charge considerations. This is Des Moines fifth traffic-related fatality of 2026, according to the DMPD Traffic Unit.