Nebraska Interstate 80 has been closed following a semi truck crash. The semi and its trailer appear to have collided, blocking both westbound lanes between Madison Ave and Mall Drive in Council Bluffs and forcing traffic diversions at this time.
Truck Crash Details
A woman and two of her children were killed Tuesday morning near Alliance in a head-on collision between a Subaru driver crossing the center line and hitting a semi head-on, with none of the passengers from either vehicle being injured; Julie Sears, aged 57 years, her two children aged 6 and 11 months, as well as driver Justin Zoerb (61), were all declared deceased at the scene of this fatal crash – while no injuries were sustained by Zoerb. This tragedy remains under investigation.
On Thursday morning in Norfolk, Nebraska two semi trucks collided and caused approximately 2,500 gallons of diesel fuel to spill at the scene resulting in HazMat crews being called in for clean-up efforts. Dozens of cattle needed to be rounded up after this crash occurred along Highway 81 near an entrance to a business north of Norfolk on Highway 81. HazMat crews were dispatched for assistance.
NSP is encouraging drivers to exercise extra caution when approaching semi trucks on the road and maintain a safe distance behind them. Drivers should pay attention to weather conditions when adapting their driving style accordingly and make regular stops during long trips for safety.
DRUNKEN DRIVING
The State Patrol is reminding drivers to remain aware and watch out for impaired drivers on the road. Troopers arrested 27 impaired drivers over Thanksgiving weekend as part of its Buckle Up, Every Trip, Every Time national campaign.
Un unrelated development: A trooper has made progress toward healing from injuries sustained when an alleged drunk driver collided with their patrol vehicle and crashed it. She remains stable in Bryan Medical Center West Campus of Lincoln.
Winter Weather Warning
It is crucial that drivers remain mindful of changing road conditions as we enter winter. Wind and ice have created treacherous driving conditions, so drivers should slow down and drive safely. Nebraska 511 provides updates regarding road condition updates for drivers.
Nebraska State Patrol troopers worked overtime this weekend in preparation for a busy Thanksgiving holiday travel period. By Sunday evening, NSP troopers had responded to 78 crashes and provided 115 motorist assists.
Nebraska State Patrol troopers are committed to keeping travelers and communities safe on Nebraska roadways, especially during this busy travel season. NSP extends our thanks and appreciation to the public for helping make this effort successful; please visit our Traffic & Safety section of our website for more details regarding NSP’s traffic safety efforts and CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies) accreditation as a testament to their continued dedication toward safety in Nebraska.