Prague, NE (September 3, 2025) – A fatal single-vehicle crash took the life of a 76-year-old man from Prague, Nebraska on Tuesday afternoon in Saunders County, according to a release from the Saunders County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash occurred just after 12:00 p.m. on Highway 79 between County Roads S and R. Authorities report that a southbound Chevy Trailblazer, driven by Marvin Ourada, veered off the roadway into the right-side ditch before striking a driveway embankment. The impact caused the vehicle to flip and resulted in Ourada being ejected from the SUV.
Emergency crews arrived on scene shortly after the incident but were unable to save the driver, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Preliminary findings suggest that Ourada may have experienced a medical emergency before losing control of the vehicle. Investigators confirmed that alcohol is not believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.
The incident remains under investigation by the Saunders County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Marvin Ourada during this incredibly difficult time.
Rollover and Medical-Related Crashes in Rural Nebraska
Rural roadways like Highway 79 in Saunders County pose unique risks for drivers, particularly older adults or those with underlying medical conditions. Tuesday’s fatal crash highlights the dangers of medical emergencies behind the wheel and how quickly they can result in catastrophic outcomes—especially in areas with limited shoulder space or sudden elevation changes, such as driveway embankments.
When a vehicle exits the road at highway speeds and strikes a fixed object like an embankment, the momentum often results in a rollover, significantly increasing the likelihood of ejection—especially if a seatbelt is not in use. Ejected occupants face far greater chances of fatal injury, even in otherwise survivable crashes.
For senior drivers, medical events like heart attacks, strokes, or loss of consciousness are important but often overlooked factors in crash causation. The Nebraska Department of Transportation encourages regular health screenings for older drivers and open communication with physicians about driving ability, especially when managing chronic conditions or medications that may impair alertness.
In rural counties such as Saunders, emergency response times may be longer, and the consequences of a single-vehicle crash can be severe. Even when no other vehicles are involved, these accidents carry a heavy emotional and logistical toll for families and the communities they impact.
If your family has been affected by a serious or fatal crash, Local Accident Reports can provide connections to trusted support resources, including grief counseling, legal guidance, and insurance assistance. Reach out today to get the support you need during this difficult time.
