Central Nebraska Today
MERRICK CO. — At approximately 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 23, Merrick County Deputies were detailed to Highway 14 near U Road in rural Merrick County regarding a two-vehicle injury accident.
A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe, was traveling northbound on Highway 14, crossed the center of the roadway into the southbound lane resulting in a collision with a southbound 2013 Dodge Ram pickup.
The driver and sole occupant of the 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe, identified as Ryan Peery, 46 of Cass County was pronounced deceased on the scene. Perry was not utilizing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, and it is unknown if drugs and/or alcohol is a contributing factor at this time.
The driver and sole occupant of the 2013 Dodge Ram was transported to Merrick Medical Center, and later transported to a medical facility in Omaha, Nebraska with serious injuries. A seatbelt was in use at the time of the accident.
Airbags deployed in both vehicles. The investigation is still ongoing at this time.
Assistance at the scene was provided by the Nebraska State Patrol, Nance County Sheriff’s Office, Clarks Fire and Rescue, Central City Ambulance and Central City Fire Department.
