The Saunders County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a two-vehicle accident Friday morning that claimed the lives of two Omaha residents.
The SCSO responded at about 7:09 a.m. to the accident on Highway 77, just north of the County Road H intersection that is about three miles south of Wahoo.
A 2005 Ford Explorer, driven by Jack Van Slyke, 18, struck the rear end of a 2023 Mercedes GLB Utility vehicle, driven by John Miller, 81.
Miller was taken to a local hospital, where he was later declared dead, deputies said. A passenger in the Mercedes, Sheila Miller, 78, was taken to a hospital, where she was later declared deceased.
The Saunders County Sheriff’s Office said Van Slyke was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Investigators said distracted driving is believed to be a factor in the crash. Seat belts were in use by all occupants and alcohol does not appear to be a factor.
Ceresco Fire and Rescue, Wahoo Fire and Rescue, Wahoo Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol assisted on the scene.
Highway 77 was closed in both directions for about three hours after the crash.
