Oelwein man charged with Reckless Driving and more after observed traveling at a high rate of speed

At 1:34am on January 5, 2026, Oelwein Police conducted a traffic stop in the 10 block of 5th Ave NE on a white Dodge Challenger earlier observed traveling at a high rate of speed heading northbound on N Frederick Ave and attempting to avoid officers by leaving city limits.  Officers stopped the vehicle when it returned within city limits and continued to attempt hiding from officers by taking residential streets. The driver, Austin James Hoover, 23, of Oelwein, was charged with Reckless Driving - Simple Misdemeanor, receiving a citation and a Summons to Appear for the offense.  Hoover was also issued citations for Speeding in a 55mph or Under Zone (21mph or Greater over the Limit) and Failure to Provide Proof of Financial Liability.