14-year-old Keefer Kearns killed in Omaha after being struck by a vehicle while crossing Dodge Expressway
Police in Omaha, Nebraska, have identified the victim of a devastating pedestrian accident as 14-year-old Keefer Kearns. This tragic event took place on Thursday, November 21, near the intersection of 156th Street and Dodge Street, where Kearns was struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the Dodge Expressway.
The incident was reported at approximately 6:43 p.m., prompting a swift response from emergency services. Upon arrival, officers found Kearns lying near the exit ramp at 156th Street, suffering from severe injuries. Despite the immediate administration of CPR and other life-saving measures, Kearns was later pronounced dead at Bergan Mercy Hospital shortly after being transported there.
The vehicle involved in the accident, a westbound Chevy Silverado, was driven by an unidentified individual who remained at the scene and cooperated fully with the authorities. The Omaha police have launched a thorough investigation into the crash to ascertain the contributing factors, including potential speed, alcohol involvement, or other circumstances that might have led to the collision.
In the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident, concerns about pedestrian safety have surged, especially in high-speed zones like the Dodge Expressway. The lack of sufficient pedestrian crossings and traffic-calming measures in such heavily trafficked areas has been highlighted as a significant risk factor. Local officials may now reconsider the safety infrastructure in these areas, potentially implementing improved signage and designated pedestrian crossings to mitigate future accidents.
The loss of Keefer Kearns has profoundly impacted his family and the wider Omaha community. A wave of grief and condolences has swept through the area as residents come to terms with the untimely death of such a young individual. This incident has starkly underscored the collective responsibility of both drivers and pedestrians to uphold safety on busy roads.
The Omaha Police Department is actively seeking assistance from the public to aid in their ongoing investigation. They urge anyone who witnessed the accident or has pertinent information to come forward. Tips can be submitted by calling (920) 832-5500 or through the department's online tip portal. For those preferring anonymity, tips can also be emailed to APDTips@appleton.org.
This tragic event serves as a grave reminder of the importance of community cooperation in resolving violent and accidental incidents. The police emphasize the necessity of vigilance and the reporting of any suspicious activity to ensure community safety. As the investigation progresses, further updates will be provided, and the community remains united in mourning the loss of Keefer Kearns and supporting his family through this difficult period.
