Northwood driver charged in fatal crash pleads not guilty

Published 3:40 pm Friday, September 30, 2011

The Northwood, Iowa, man who faces vehicular homicide charges after he allegedly struck and killed a 7-year-old girl attempting to board a school bus in May in Worth County has pleaded not guilty to his charges.

Aaron Gunderson

Aaron Dwayne Gunderson, 31, entered the plea Friday in Worth County District Court. His trial has been scheduled for Dec. 7.

Gunderson faces two counts of vehicular homicide and one count of leaving the scene of a personal injury accident resulting in death. One of the counts of vehicular homicide involves allegedly being intoxicated at the time of the crash.

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According to court documents, Gunderson was reportedly driving more than 60 mph on May 10 at the time his red Chevrolet Silverado collided with the young girl, Kadyn Halverson of rural Kensett.

The collision took place at 4336 Raven Ave. The school bus Kadyn was going to board was completely stopped and had its flashing red lights and stop arm activated.

Kadyn had been brought to the bus stop by a day care provider who was parked about 25 feet west of the roadway before Kadyn exited the car.

Gunderson allegedly failed to stop for the flashing lights and extended stop sign of the bus and then struck Halverson, before continuing southbound, without stopping at the scene of the crash.

Kadyn died at the scene.

Gunderson was apprehended later that day, after which he tested positive for marijuana use. He reportedly admitted to using marijuana five days prior, but levels of the THC shown in the blood were consistent with more recent use, according to court documents.

He also reportedly stated he suffered from an eye disorder and that he should not be driving.