Iowa Man Involved in Fatal Crash Sues City

An Iowa man who fatally hit a volunteer firefighter is suing the city of Shelby, alleging the man was under the influence of drugs and stepped into traffic.

David Thies filed the claim in Pottawattamie County small claims court in connection with the September 2011 car accident that killed 41-year-old Michael Collins. He is seeking $5,000 plus any extra relief the court sees fit.

Collins was directing traffic around a crash on Interstate 80 when the accident occurred. Thies was never charged in the death.

The lawsuit claims Collins’ toxicology reports show he had prescription painkillers in his system and tested positive for the active ingredient in marijuana.

Thies says he developed post-traumatic stress disorder and is still in therapy. Shelby Mayor Brad Blum declined to comment on the lawsuit.