Nora Springs Man Hospitalized After Snowmobile Accident

Authorities say the 23-year-old struck a rock and was thrown from the vehicle.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A 23-year-old man from Nora Springs, Iowa was injured on Sunday afternoon when the snowmobile he was operating struck a large rock, causing him to be thrown from the vehicle. The Cerro Gordo County Sheriff's Office responded to the incident on private property and the man was transported to a local hospital with injuries.

Why it matters

Snowmobile accidents can be dangerous, especially when riders are not wearing proper safety equipment like helmets. This incident highlights the importance of safe operation and preparedness when engaging in winter recreational activities.

The details

According to the sheriff's office, Benjamin Venenga of Nora Springs was traveling northbound on private property at around 12:56 PM on February 8, 2026 when his snowmobile struck a large rock, causing him to be thrown from the vehicle. Venenga was not wearing a helmet at the time and suffered injuries that required him to be transported to Mercy One hospital by Mason City Fire Medics.

  • The incident occurred on February 8, 2026 at 12:56 PM.

The players

Benjamin Venenga

A 23-year-old man from Nora Springs, Iowa who was operating the snowmobile involved in the accident.

Cerro Gordo County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to and is investigating the snowmobile accident.

Mason City Fire Department

The fire department that assisted in transporting the injured snowmobile operator to the hospital.

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What’s next

The accident remains under investigation by the Cerro Gordo County Sheriff's Office.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of safe snowmobile operation and the use of proper safety equipment like helmets to prevent serious injuries in the event of an accident.