PAULINA, Iowa – The community of Paulina in O’Brien County is mourning the loss of one of its own, Carter Halverson, an 18-year-old senior at South O’Brien High School, who tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle accident early Saturday morning, December 21, 2024.
According to the O’Brien County Sheriff’s Communications Center, the accident occurred around 12:11 a.m. when they received an emergency alert from OnStar, indicating a potential collision near 5454 500th Street Southwest in Paulina. Upon arrival, authorities found Halverson’s 2023 Chevrolet Malibu in a north ditch after it had left the roadway, struck a driveway, and rolled over at least once.
Halverson was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, which led to him being ejected from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation, but initial findings suggest that the vehicle was traveling eastbound on 500th Street when the incident occurred.
In a heartfelt statement, Superintendent Wade Riley and JH/HS Principal Denise Phillips of the South O’Brien Community School District expressed their profound sadness over the loss of Halverson. “With heavy hearts, we share that Carter Halverson, a senior, lost his life in a car accident last night,” their message read, offering condolences to Halverson’s family, friends, and loved ones. The school has set up support services to help students and staff cope with this tragic loss.
Carter Halverson was remembered by those who knew him as a student with a vibrant smile and a supportive friend who was often seen cheering for his classmates at school events. His unexpected death has left a void in the community, with many expressing their grief and offering support to his family through various memorials and social media tributes.
The accident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of not wearing seatbelts and the unpredictability of road travel. The investigation into the accident continues, with more details expected to be forthcoming as the O’Brien County Sheriff’s Office, along with other local emergency services, work to piece together the events of that night.
The community has begun to rally around Halverson’s family, offering prayers and support during this difficult time. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him at South O’Brien High School and beyond.