On May 13, 2025, the Custer County Sheriff’s Office, assisted by the Nebraska State Patrol, investigated a two-vehicle fatality accident .25 miles north of Broken Bow, at the Highway 2/Memorial Drive intersection.

Vehicle #1, a 2014 Ford F350 pickup, driven by 58-year-old Brian L. Havel of Broken Bow, was northbound on Nebraska Highway 2.

Vehicle #2, a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix, driven by 22-year-old Dale J. Ward, also of Broken Bow, was westbound on Memorial Drive.

The Grand Prix turned south onto Highway 2 from Memorial Drive, in front of the Ford pickup, causing the front of the pickup to strike the car's driver-side door.

Ward was transported to the Jennie M. Melham Hospital and was later pronounced dead. The driver of the Ford pickup was not transported to a medical care facility.

The deceased was not wearing a seatbelt. Seatbelt use by the driver of the Ford pickup is unknown at this time.

The Sheriff’s Office and Nebraska State Patrol were assisted by Broken Bow Fire and Rescue, Trumbull Towing, and Hunters Towing.

The Custer County Sheriff’s Office sends thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by this tragedy.