Omaha, NE (May 25, 2026) – A police cruiser was struck while officers were addressing a traffic hazard on the roadway on Sunday night, May 24, along Interstate 80 eastbound near 13th Street.
Emergency units arrived and found a 25-year-old man who struck a police cruiser while traveling at high speed on Interstate 80 eastbound. He was taken by emergency units to Nebraska Medical Center with a possible head injury. He was awake and alert with a GCS of 14 and was hurt in the crash.
A 36-year-old OPD officer was seated inside his cruiser when it was struck from behind. He was injured and reported back pain. He was wearing a seatbelt and did not lose consciousness during the incident.
The police are investigating the events that led to the fatal crash. We hope those injured recover fully and quickly.
What Is Reviewed After Highway Crashes Involving Emergency Vehicles
After roadway situations involving emergency vehicles, investigators review vehicle positions, speed, and driver movement leading up to the moment of contact. Physical markings on the pavement and damage patterns on each vehicle are often used to help reconstruct the sequence of events.
Information from involved drivers and any available witnesses may also be reviewed to establish timing. Traffic flow and visibility conditions at the time are considered as part of the broader evaluation.
Medical evaluations can later provide details on the extent of harm and the care provided afterward. Electronic data from vehicles may also help clarify speed and braking patterns. Each piece of information helps build a clearer understanding of how the sequence developed.
