On 9/8/2021 at about 0943 hours, Boone County Dispatch Center received multiple 911 calls about a two-vehicle accident that occurred on Hwy 30 and 230th St. This is located west of the United Community School.

The accident initially occurred on the eastbound lanes of Hwy 30, but after the impact, both vehicles came to a rest in the turn lane from that same intersection, just off the Hwy 30 westbound lanes.

Upon arrival, Deputy Spencer was assisted by several citizens in removing a non-responsive adult male from his vehicle. CPR was started immediately. Boone Fire Department and Boone County Hospital Ambulance arrived on scene and took over CPR. Mercy One helicopter was called and flew to the scene. The helicopter had to be landed on Hwy 30 westbound lanes, which shut down traffic for a short while.

Boone County Law Enforcement investigated the scene of the accident.

A black Chevy Equinox was eastbound on Hwy 30 and was traveling in the north lane. This vehicle was being driven by Alex Cole 30, of Pleasant Hill. A Chevy Malibu being driven by Jesse Kelsay, 41, of West Des Moines crossed the Hwy 30 eastbound lanes at the intersection, presumably to continue westbound onto Hwy 30. The eastbound Chevy Equinox collided with the driver’s door of the Chevy Malibu. Alex Cole appeared to be uninjured. Unfortunately, despite first responders’ efforts, Jesse Kelsay died at the accident scene.

The Boone Fire Department, Boone County Hospital Ambulance, Boone Police Department, Mercy One, and Condon’s Towing all assisted at the scene. Also, we want to acknowledge and thank the civilian motorists that initially assisted at the accident scene.