KEOKUK COUNTY – The driver in a hay ride accident that took place in Keokuk County in October of 2023 has pleaded guilty to multiple charges.

Yesterday in court, Daniel Brubaker pleaded guilty to 3 Class C felony charges of neglect of a dependent person and 10 Class D felony charges of child endangerment resulting in bodily injury. 

The charges stemmed from an incident in October 2023 in which Brubaker was driving a pickup truck pulling a gooseneck trailer that had 29 children when he lost control of the truck, sending the trailer into a ditch and throwing all 29 children from the ride. The accident sent 3 of the children to the hospital.

In court, Brubaker admitted he began drinking alcohol around midday and had consumed 5 alcoholic beverages before the hayride, additionally consuming a half a can of beer during the ride and a half a bottle of vodka after it ended. He did not stay at the scene long enough for authorities to arrive.

Brubaker’s sentencing is scheduled for September 4. He faces a potential prison term of up to 80 years.

David Heady, who was a passenger in the truck, is facing the same charges. Heady was a Keokuk County Deputy at the time of the incident and has since resigned. His trial is set for August 26.