FAYETTE COUNTY, IA – A traffic crash in Hawkeye led to the arrest of two individuals, the seizure of methamphetamine, and the recovery of a missing juvenile during a separate search warrant in Oelwein later the same day.
On October 11, 2025, at approximately 10:39 a.m., the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of West Wilbur Street and South Burrell Street in Hawkeye. Investigators determined that one driver was operating a 2021 Chevrolet Traverse and attempted to turn north onto South Burrell Street. At the same time, Regina Rena Larson, 52, of Oelwein, was driving a 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 and turned east onto West Wilbur Street. Larson reportedly oversteered into the Chevrolet’s lane, struck the vehicle, and continued driving after the collision.
No injuries were reported. The Chevrolet sustained approximately $3,000 in damage; the Dodge Ram sustained around $1,500. Larson was allegedly using her cellphone at the time of the crash.
During the crash investigation, a deputy detected the odor of illegal substances coming from Larson’s vehicle. A search revealed over 19 grams of methamphetamine. Larson was arrested and transported to the Fayette County Jail. She was charged with:
- Controlled Substance Violation (B Felony)
- Possession of Controlled Substance – 2nd Offense – Methamphetamine (Aggravated Misdemeanor)
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Simple Misdemeanor)
- Failure to Yield upon Entering the Highway
Information obtained during the investigation led to a search warrant for a residence in the 900 block of 2nd Avenue NE in Oelwein. At approximately 11:10 p.m., deputies with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Oelwein Police Department executed the warrant.
Two individuals attempted to hide from law enforcement. One was located behind a false wall and under a stairwell, and the other was found in the attic insulation. Authorities seized illegal substances from the residence.
Michael William Bushaw, 34, of Oelwein, was arrested and transported to the Fayette County Jail. He was charged with:
- Controlled Substance Violation (C Felony)
- Possession of Controlled Substance – 3rd or Subsequent Offense (D Felony)
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (Simple Misdemeanor)
- Harboring a Runaway (Aggravated Misdemeanor)
- Interference with Official Acts (Simple Misdemeanor)
Bushaw also had a valid warrant out of Buchanan County for Failure to Appear for Sentencing.
A 16-year-old male juvenile reported missing was also located at the residence. The juvenile had an active warrant and was transported to a detention facility. Additional charges are being referred to Juvenile Court.
