04/07/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Schonert’s Corporate Catering
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.schonertscatering.com
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Accident During Ames Fourth of July Parade
Ames, IA — July 4, 2025 — A celebration of Independence Day took an unexpected turn when a vehicle collision occurred at the start of the Ames Fourth of July Parade, involving the team from Schonert’s Corporate Catering.
Schonert’s, a locally owned catering company based in Ames, was participating in the parade to debut its new on-site grilling services. Just as the parade began, the company’s van and attached trailer grill were struck from behind by another parade vehicle that lost control and collided at full speed into their setup.
Fortunately, no bystanders or members of the Schonert’s team were directly struck, and no life-threatening injuries were reported. However, two individuals riding in the bed of the vehicle that caused the accident were transported to the hospital with injuries. The Schonert’s catering van and trailer sustained significant damage.
Thanks to the quick and professional response from the Ames Police Department, Ames Fire Department, and EMS personnel, the scene was swiftly secured. After firefighters helped dislodge the grill trailer from the damaged van, Schonert’s team chose to carry on. Despite the circumstances, they served nearly 1,000 of their signature ¼ lb. all-beef hot dogs to parade-goers as planned.
“We are incredibly grateful to the first responders, parade organizers, and community members who stepped up to help,” said Adam Schonert, Owner of Schonert’s Corporate Catering. “While this was an unfortunate incident, we understand that accidents happen. We hold no ill will toward those involved and are simply thankful that everyone is safe. Equipment can be replaced — people cannot.” The team at Schonert’s Corporate Catering extends its heartfelt thoughts and well-wishes to those who were injured in the accident.
Schonert’s remains proud to be Ames’ premier, full-service catering company and was honored to still be part of the community’s Fourth of July celebration — even under challenging circumstances.