Savanna Man Dies, Cousin Is Hurt In Carroll Crash

MOUNT CARROLL-A Savanna man died and his cousin is in St. Francis Hospital, Freeport, recovering from injuries received Friday evening when a loaded log truck overturned and burned, three miles west of Lanark on Highway 64. Killed was Lyle Helle, 21, a Savanna resident, who died when he was pinned beneath the wreckage of the burning truck. David J. Helle, Savanna, was pinned beneath the wreckage also but was freed by passing motorists. He received minor burns over most of his body, more severe burns to his left leg and lacerations to both hands.

Blaze Extinguished

The Lanark fire department extinguished the blaze but two wreckers from local towns could not lift the truck from Lyle's body. A larger wrecker from Sterling was called to free the victim's body. The Carroll County sheriff's
office reported Lyle was driving the truck when he lost control on a curve leading into the underpass of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad. The truck rolled over and caught fire.

Worked In Savanna

The two men were associated with the Savanna Wood Products Co., operated by the Helle family. Both men were married this year. Surviving Helle besides his widow are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon Helle of Savanna; two sisters, Louise and Lorraine; and a brother, Harley, all at home. Funeral arrangements are pending at Fuller Funeral Home, Savanna.

-- Freeport Journal Standard, pg. 12, Sept. 8, 1956