Merrick County, NE (February 23, 2025) – A two-vehicle collision in rural Merrick County on Saturday morning resulted in multiple injuries, according to the Merrick County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash occurred at approximately 7:24 a.m. at the intersection of Highway 30 and D Rd. A preliminary investigation determined that a 2020 Kia Sportage, driven by 20-year-old Ethan Wibben of Wayne County, was traveling westbound on Highway 30 when it crossed the center line and collided with an eastbound 2008 Ford Mustang.
The driver of the Kia Sportage, Ethan Wibben, sustained minor injuries and was transported to St. Francis Hospital in Grand Island for medical treatment. The driver of the Ford Mustang, identified as 22-year-old Salea Gillespie of Polk County, was taken to Grand Island Regional Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A passenger in the Mustang also sustained minor injuries and was transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. No further details have been released at this time.
Our thoughts are with those injured in this accident, and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.
Car Accidents in Nebraska
Nebraska roadways, especially rural highways like Highway 30, often see serious collisions due to high speeds, driver fatigue, and lane departures. Head-on crashes, such as the one in Merrick County, are particularly dangerous and frequently result in severe injuries.
According to the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), many injury crashes in the state are caused by distracted driving, failure to maintain lanes, and speeding. Victims of these accidents often face medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost income during recovery.
Motorists are urged to remain alert, obey all traffic laws, and avoid distractions while driving. If an accident is caused by reckless or negligent driving, injured victims may have legal options to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.