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Candlelight service set for 2 SWCC students who died in a Union County crash

News, Sports

July 23rd, 2023 by Ric Hanson

[Updated] (Creston, Iowa) – Official with Southwestern Community College, in Creston, announced on social media, Sunday afternoon, a candlelight service will be held Tuesday, July 25th two of its student athletes. The service takes place on the SWCC Sofball Field, beginning at 8:15-p.m.

Halsie Lynn Barnes (SWCC Facebook photo)

19-year-old Halsie Lynn Barnes, of Tingley, died in the crash Friday night between a pickup and the car she was a passenger in. The college also reports 19-year-old Ella Jo Leonard, of Winterset, died Sunday from injuries she received during the crash.

Four others, including the driver of the car and another passenger, plus two people in the pickup, were injured. The crash happened at around 10:28-p.m. on Highway 34 at 190th Street, east of Afton.

A statement from the college said “Halsie was the light and spirit of our team. Her presence at Southwestern next year will be missed greatly. We send our deepest condolences to her family, friends and teammates. We also pray for the other individuals involved in the accident.”

Ella Leonard, the college says, was a member of last year’s SWCC College Dance team, and was returning as a captain this upcoming season. “She was a sweet, talented and passionate team member that we will miss very deeply. Please keep Ella’s family and friends in your prayers,” college officials said.

Ella Jo Leonard (SWCC Photo)

A come-and-go grief counseling and gathering session will be held on Monday, July 24, in the Instructional Center, room 180, from 2-4 p.m. All members of the SWCC family are invited to attend.

Counselors will be available during this time to assist in healing conversations as the community and college come together to grieve and continue to be there for the students and their families who were affected by Friday evening’s auto accident.