Valley, NE (July 31, 2025) — A man and his dog were killed Thursday morning after a semi-truck collided with their SUV near the eastbound Highway 275 off-ramp at 252nd and Meigs Streets, according to Valley Police. A female passenger in the SUV was injured but is expected to survive.
Incident Details: The crash occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m. when the SUV exited Highway 275 and attempted to turn left onto Meigs Street. Police say the semi-truck struck the SUV during the turn. The male driver was pronounced dead at the scene, and his dog was found deceased about 40 feet away, still secured by its leash. The woman riding in the SUV was extricated by Waterloo Fire and Rescue and transported to CHI-Bergan Mercy Hospital. Her exact injuries have not been disclosed, but she is expected to recover.
Reports from the scene indicate the crash also involved a car and a camper.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The investigation is ongoing, with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Accident Reconstruction Team assisting with it. The focus is likely on whether either driver failed to yield, misjudged speed or distance, or violated right-of-way rules at the intersection. Multiple vehicles may complicate fault determination, especially if secondary impacts contributed to the severity of the crash.
Pending the investigation’s findings, the injured passenger may have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim, and the family of the deceased driver may be able to file a wrongful death action to compensate for funeral costs, medical bills, lost income, and loss of companionship.
My deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the man who died, and I wish his passenger a full and speedy recovery.
Source: MSN / WOWT