Hastings, NE (August 5, 2025) – A 58-year-old motorcyclist tragically lost his life on Sunday afternoon following a crash involving a passenger vehicle southwest of Hastings. The fatal collision occurred around 3:44 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. Highway 6 and Marian Rd, according to the Adams County Sheriff’s Department.
The incident involved a Jeep Cherokee traveling east on Hwy 6 and a westbound motorcycle. Authorities said the driver of the Jeep, identified as Brenda Willnerd, was attempting to turn north onto Marian Rd when her vehicle collided with the motorcycle operated by William Humburg, also 58 and from Hastings.
Humburg sustained severe injuries and was transported by Hastings Fire & Rescue to Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. Authorities confirmed that he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. The driver of the Jeep, who was wearing a seatbelt, was not reported to be injured.
There is no indication that speed or alcohol contributed to the incident. The Nebraska State Patrol is conducting a full accident reconstruction, while the Adams County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate. No citations or arrests have been made at this time, pending the outcome of that investigation.
Additional assistance was provided by Hastings Rural Fire, and the scene remained closed for several hours as investigators collected evidence and cleared debris.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Humburg during this difficult time.
Motorcycle Fatalities in Nebraska
Sunday’s tragic accident at the junction of U.S. Highway 6 and Marian Rd underscores the vulnerability of motorcyclists on Nebraska roadways. Despite wearing protective gear, William Humburg lost his life in a scenario that occurs all too often: a turning vehicle intersecting the path of an oncoming motorcycle.
This type of crash is among the most common and deadliest for motorcyclists. According to Nebraska state crash data, left-turn collisions account for a large proportion of fatal motorcycle accidents. Even at moderate speeds and under lawful conditions, the limited visibility and smaller size of motorcycles make them especially susceptible to impact during turning maneuvers by other vehicles.
In this case, the crash occurred at a rural intersection outside of Hastings, an area where traffic may be lighter but speeds are typically higher. With both parties obeying standard safety practices (helmet and seatbelt use), the incident highlights how roadway layout and timing decisions still play critical roles in preventing fatalities.
Local emergency teams, including Hastings Fire & Rescue and the Nebraska State Patrol, responded with professionalism and urgency, ensuring that all parties received appropriate care and that evidence was properly documented. Their involvement is vital to understanding what exactly went wrong and how future incidents might be prevented.
For families dealing with the sudden loss of a loved one, the aftermath is often filled with grief, unanswered questions, and logistical burdens. Medical costs, funeral arrangements, and long-term emotional impacts can weigh heavily. It’s essential to know that resources exist to help navigate this difficult process, including legal guidance and victim support programs.
At Local Accident Reports, our commitment is to keep communities informed and to offer a clear path forward to those suffering after tragic incidents. While we cannot undo the pain of loss, we aim to ensure no family faces these challenges without support.
Losing someone in a motorcycle crash is heartbreaking, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Local Accident Reports, we provide families with timely updates, access to recovery resources, and help finding the answers they need. Reach out to us today and take the first step toward clarity and healing.
