The Saunders County deputy injured during a traffic incident Friday night is on the road to recovery.
Deputy Dominic Leuck was released from the hospital on Saturday. He sustained various injuries, including a fractured rib, torn ligament in his ankle, a fractured cheek bone, bruising to his lungs, a concussion, bruises and lacerations.
In a press release this afternoon, Sheriff Chris Lichtenberg said Leuck appreciates the support he has received from everyone.
At about 10 p.m. Friday, Leuck attempted to initiate a traffic stop of a vehicle that was speeding on Highway 79 near County Road N. The vehicle, driven by Dustin Hayes, 26, of Prague, immediately turned onto County Road N and proceeded eastbound at a high rate of speed and a pursuit was initiated.
Leuck lost visual contact with Hayes’ vehicle which had lost control and rolled into a field. The deputy then lost control and ended up in a creek at which time the cruiser caught fire and was engulfed in flames.
Leuck was treated at Saunders Medical Center and later transferred to Bergan Mercy Hospital for observation. Hayes was taken into custody and transported to Saunders County Corrections after medical clearance.
Hayes was ultimately cited with flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, driving during revocation, possession of marijuana less than an ounce and speeding.
The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating both accidents
