(Merrill) — Authorities from Le Mars Fire and Rescue Department and the Merrill Fire Department responded to a scene of a semi-truck and trailer accident that happened this morning at about 5:00 a.m. on Highway 75 at the northern edge of Merrill. In a news release issued by the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office, it has been confirmed the accident did result in a fatality from the accident. The name of the truck driver will be withheld at this time pending notification of next of kin. Plymouth County Sheriff’s deputy observed large sparks from power lines on the north side of Merrill. Upon investigating the cause, a southbound semi truck left the roadway, striking a power line pole, and continued towards Liberty Auto Sales, striking several vehicles. What we know is the semi-truck and trailer hit a utility pole near the Hometown Mobility facility, then careened into several parked cars of the Liberty Auto Sales. As a result of the accident, the town of Merrill was without power for a few hours. Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office is conducting an investigation of the semi truck accident. Mid-America Energy arrived at the scene to help restore power to Merrill. The accident caused nearly 550 customers to lose power, but by 9:00 a.m. most of Merrill had restored power. The truck appeared to be hauling meat products. Southbound traffic on Highway 75 going through Merrill is open, although authorities ask that motorists slow down as they pass the accident scene.
