Police officer was drunk during deadly crash, investigators say

WATERLOO, Iowa (KCRG/Gray News) - Investigators in Waterloo, Iowa, said a police officer’s blood alcohol concentration was more than three times over the legal limit when he crashed a motorcycle last year, killing his enger.

Keaton Northup, 34, was charged with homicide by vehicle - operating under the influence and homicide by vehicle - reckless driving.

According to a criminal complaint, Northup was driving a motorcycle on Interstate 380 in Black Hawk County on June 1, 2024, when he lost control of his bike and crashed into a metal barrier.

Investigators said Northup was going more than 100 miles per hour at the time of the crash.

Jenna Mills, 28, was a enger on Northup’s motorcycle and died at the scene.

Northup was thrown from the motorcycle and was taken to MercyOne in Waterloo for serious injuries.

Hospital staff observed Northup was highly intoxicated. A blood sample showed his BAC was .292, well above the legal limit to drive.

Investigators said DOT camera video and witnesses confirmed Northup was driving in an unsafe manner before the crash. According to the reports, he was seen driving in and out of traffic, ing vehicles using the inside lane without signaling, and driving with his hazards on.

Northup claimed to have no memory of the crash, but first responders at the scene said they detected an odor of alcohol on his breath.

An investigation revealed Northup had been drinking alcohol throughout the day at multiple bars. The investigation also reported he was seen on video drinking more than 10 alcoholic beverages before the crash. Recordings appear to show Northup stumbling while walking, having to use a bar surface to walk straight, and nearly walking into a pole.

Investigators said that since the crash, Northup bought a new motorcycle and was seen driving the bike after visiting a bar.

Northup was arrested and later posted a $25,000 bond.

In a press release this week, the Waterloo Police Department said Northup was previously put on istrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. On Friday morning, the department said Northup is still with the department.