The accident scene on Highway 30 during the afternoon of July 18, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — A fatal accident took place after a van and train collided on Highway 30 near Eaton’s in eastern Kearney during the early afternoon of Thursday, July 18.
According to the Kearney Police Department, first responders responded to the scene and Highway 30 was closed in both directions while the accident investigation was being completed.
Drivers were told to expect heavier traffic flow on 39th Street and 56th Street through Kearney.
“According to preliminary investigation, a transportation van was traveling westbound on US Highway 30 east of Cherry Ave. just outside the city limits of Kearney. At this location, a UPRR train was backing up on a railroad service track that crosses the highway. As the train was backing, it collided with the westbound van. The van, occupied by the driver and lone passenger, received significant damage. The driver of the van, preliminarily identified as an older male driver, was deceased at the scene. The only other occupant was an adult female, who reported no injury. Authorities are working to confirm the identity of the driver and notify next of kin,” according to the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the Kearney Police Department, Kearney / Buffalo County Fatality Accident Investigation (FAIT) team, Kearney Volunteer Fire Department, CHI GSH Paramedics, Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska State Department of Roads and Buffalo County Attorney’s Office.
KPD said more details will be released at a later time when the investigation is complete.
Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office cruiser on scene, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
