Lincoln, NE (December 17, 2024) – A fatal crash late Monday night claimed the life of a 78-year-old woman on West Panama Rd near Southwest 29th St, approximately 12 miles south of Lincoln.
The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office reported that the crash occurred around 11:30 PM when an SUV left the roadway, struck part of a bridge over the Spring Branch of Salt Creek, and landed in a ditch. The driver, identified as Sharon Gana of Martell, became trapped inside the vehicle following the crash.
Hallam Fire & Rescue and Cortland Rural Fire & Rescue responded swiftly to extricate Ms. Gana from the SUV. She was flown by helicopter to Bryan West Medical Center, where she tragically passed away early Tuesday morning. Authorities confirmed that no other occupants were in the vehicle at the time of the incident.
The cause of the accident is under active investigation by the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Sharon Gana during this difficult time.
Rural Road Accidents in Nebraska
Nebraska’s rural roads, such as West Panama Rd, can pose unique dangers for drivers, particularly during nighttime travel. Poor visibility, narrow roadways, and bridge crossings can contribute to accidents, especially for drivers navigating these areas in low light conditions.
The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) has reported that rural roads account for a high percentage of fatal crashes across the state. Single-vehicle accidents, such as the one in this incident, are common on rural routes where ditches, sharp curves, and unexpected obstacles can lead to severe collisions.
Drivers are urged to exercise caution on rural roads by reducing speeds, ensuring headlights are functioning properly, and remaining alert to changing road conditions. By taking these measures, drivers can reduce the risk of crashes and improve safety on Nebraska’s rural roadways.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a motor vehicle accident, contact Local Accident Reports for guidance and support.