(Shenandoah, Iowa) – Officials with the Wabash Trace Nature Trail Organization, Sunday, confirmed the death of one of their trail riders occurred during Sunday’s early morning storms in Page County. In a post on social media, the organization said “It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news about the fatality of one of our own Rooster Tail Riders.

“Early this [Sunday] morning, a severe storm came through Shenandoah, where riders were camping for the night. Along with heavy rain, winds were reported at more than 70 mph, ultimately resulting in the death of one of our riders who was camping in a tent. Our sincere condolences go out to the rider’s family and friends in this extremely tragic situation.” The victim’s name was not immediately released.

Organizers say the “…plan to contribute and/or facilitate a memorial of some type, to be determined.” They also thanked emergency responders, fellow riders, and local volunteers who provided assistance during this tragedy and the efforts to get riders and bikes back to Mineola. 

Severe storms that blew through Page County Sunday morning caused widespread damage, with a majority of the damage reports coming out of Shenandoah, including several large trees and a semi in a parking lot that toppled over. Wind speeds at the time were in excess of 60-miles per hour.