Tragic Hit-and-Run: Dennis Hall, 72, Killed Changing Tire on I-80 in Nebraska.
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Hey folks, there’s a serious situation in Ogallala, Nebraska that we need to talk about. On Thursday evening around 8:40 p.m., the Nebraska State Patrol got a distressing 911 call about a hit-and-run on Interstate 80, just west of Big Springs. When troopers and the Deuel County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene, they found 72-year-old Dennis Hall tragically dead next to his Lincoln Town Car, which had a flat tire.
Here’s what happened: Hall was trying to change his flat tire when a passing vehicle struck him. Witnesses reported seeing a vehicle fleeing the scene, and the evidence left behind suggests it was a semitruck. Unfortunately, there’s no detailed description of the truck, but it’s likely got some damage on the front passenger side.
Authorities have been scouring truck parking areas for any signs of the semi involved but haven’t had any luck just yet. This is where you come in. If you have any information that could help track down the truck or the driver, the Nebraska State Patrol is urging you to give them a call at 308-632-1211. Every bit of information can make a difference, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
Man, 72, killed while trying to change flat tire on interstate, authorities say
OGALLALA, Neb. (KNOP/Gray News) – Nebraska authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating a vehicle believed to be involved in a deadly hit-and-run crash earlier this week.
According to the Nebraska State Patrol, troopers received a 911 call at about 8:40 p.m. on Thursday about a hit-and-run on Interstate 80, west of Big Springs.
Troopers and the Deuel County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.
Upon arrival, a man, later identified as 72-year-old Dennis Hall, was found dead outside a Lincoln Town Car with a flat tire parked on the shoulder.
Authorities said a preliminary investigation showed that while Hall was attempting to change the flat tire, he was hit by a passing vehicle.
Witnesses reported that they saw a vehicle leaving the scene, troopers said.
Evidence at the scene indicated that the vehicle involved was a semitruck, but there was no specific description.
Troopers said they believe the semi would likely have damage on the front passenger side.
Troopers searched numerous truck parking locations for the truck that may have been involved but did not immediately locate it.
Nebraska State Patrol urged anyone with further information about the hit-and-run to call them at 308-632-1211.
What Happened on Interstate 80 in Western Nebraska?
OGALLALA, Neb. (KNOP/Gray News) – Last Thursday evening, the Nebraska State Patrol received a distressing 911 call about a hit-and-run incident that took place on Interstate 80, just west of Big Springs. At around 8:40 p.m., the call reported a man being hit while changing a flat tire on the shoulder of the highway. Troopers, along with the Deuel County Sheriff’s Office, quickly responded to the scene.
Who Was the Victim?
Upon arrival, authorities discovered the lifeless body of Dennis Hall, a 72-year-old resident, lying next to a Lincoln Town Car with a flat tire. Mr. Hall was apparently in the process of changing the tire when the tragic accident occurred. His death was a shock to the local community, and it has left many questions unanswered about the circumstances leading up to the incident.
What Did Witnesses See?
According to eyewitness accounts, a vehicle was seen speeding away from the scene immediately after the incident. This information has been crucial for the Nebraska State Patrol as they piece together what happened. Witnesses believe the vehicle in question was a semitruck, though no specific details about the truck have emerged yet. Authorities are focusing on finding this vehicle, which is likely to have damage on its front passenger side.
What Steps Have Authorities Taken?
The Nebraska State Patrol and local law enforcement have been diligently working on locating the truck involved. Troopers have searched numerous truck parking locations in the area, hoping to find any leads. Despite their efforts, the vehicle has yet to be found. The Nebraska State Patrol is urging anyone with information related to the hit-and-run to contact them at 308-632-1211.
How Can the Public Help?
Authorities are seeking the public’s assistance in this investigation. If you were traveling on Interstate 80 around the time of the incident, or if you have seen a semitruck with noticeable front passenger side damage, your information could be invaluable. The public’s cooperation can significantly aid law enforcement in bringing the responsible party to justice and providing closure to Dennis Hall’s family.
What Are the Next Steps in the Investigation?
Moving forward, the Nebraska State Patrol will continue to scrutinize surveillance footage from nearby truck stops, gas stations, and traffic cameras. They are also working closely with trucking companies to identify any vehicles that match the description provided by witnesses. The Nebraska State Patrol is hopeful that with the public’s help, they will be able to track down the vehicle and driver involved in this tragic incident.
What Safety Precautions Can Be Taken?
This heartbreaking event serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by individuals who find themselves stranded on busy highways. If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, it’s crucial to take certain safety precautions. Always activate your hazard lights, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, and if you can, call for professional roadside assistance to minimize your time on the shoulder. Your safety is paramount, and taking these steps can help prevent future tragedies.
The community of Ogallala and the greater Nebraska area are rallying behind the family of Dennis Hall, offering their support and condolences during this difficult time. As the investigation continues, the hope is that justice will be served, and the responsible party will be held accountable.