Lancaster County, Northeast – The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office (LSO) has confirmed the identity of the victim in a tragic accident that occurred east of Waverly on Thursday, November 20, 2025. Fernando Ortiz, 86, of Waverly, N. Tragically lost his life in an accident at the intersection of 162nd Street and Bluff Road.
What happened
At 9:14 a.m. Thursday, Waverly Fire and Rescue emergency responders were dispatched to the scene of a two-vehicle collision. According to LSO, a Lancaster County Engineering Department dump truck was traveling southbound when it collided with a red vehicle traveling westbound. Due to the collision, the red vehicle went through the intersection and fell into a nearby ditch.
Despite the prompt efforts of emergency medical personnel, Ortiz, who was a passenger in the red vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. His wife, who was the driver of the red vehicle, was seriously injured and was taken to a nearby hospital, where she remains in stable condition.
Who was Fernando Ortiz?
Fernando Ortiz was well known in his community as a kind and caring man. At the age of 86, he lived a life full of dedication to his loved ones and community. His sudden demise has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends and neighbours. Ortiz’s wife, who was seriously injured in the accident, has been deeply affected by her husband’s death. The couple’s dog, who was also in the vehicle at the time of the crash, was taken to a veterinary hospital in Waverly for treatment.
Investigation and Conclusion
LSO Captain John Wick confirmed that the dump truck driver failed to stop at the intersection’s stop sign due to the foggy conditions present at the time. The truck was spreading gravel on the road earlier in the day. The driver of the dump truck is fully cooperating in the ongoing investigation.
LSO, in cooperation with the Nebraska State Patrol, is continuing to investigate the circumstances of the accident. Officers are looking into whether any citations will be issued in connection with the incident.
impact on community
This tragic crash is the fourth traffic-related death in Lancaster County in the past two weeks, a sobering statistic that has shocked many in the community. As the investigation continues, Lancaster County residents are considering the importance of road safety, especially during adverse weather conditions, to prevent future accidents and deaths.
what happens next
LSO and the Nebraska State Patrol will continue their investigation of the accident. Any updates or new developments in the case will be shared with the public as soon as they become available.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
