Pair of fatal accidents being investigated in Ottawa

Authorities are investigating a pair of fatal accidents in Ottawa.  One man was killed and another injured yesterday morning after a grain truck struck them while they bicycled two miles northwest of Ottawa.  According to the La Salle County Sheriff’s Office, 76-year old Dr. John Harbeck, a retired Ottawa dentist, was pronounced dead at the scene.  79-year old Frank Piogott of Sheridan was taken to Ottawa Regional Hospital, where his condition was not released.  Two other Ottawa cyclists were not injured.  The four men were traveling north on East 15th Road when a northbound truck driven by 74-year old Everett Olmstead of Earlville struck two of them.  It's not known if Olmstead will face charges.

A woman was hit and killed by a train just before five yesterday afternoon at the Chestnut Street crossing on the west side of the city.  Police say 49-year old Carol Pitts of Ottawa was pronounced dead at the scene.  Witnesses reported seeing Pitts laying on the railroad tracks prior to being struck.  No foul play is suspected.  The train immediately came to a stop after striking Pitts, closing off the railroad crossing for a short time.  An investigation continues by the Ottawa Police Department and La Salle County Coroner's Office.