Two people hospitalized after pickup strikes tractor on Chase County highway

IMPERIAL, Neb. - A collision involving a tractor and pickup on Highway 61, near 744 Road, north of Imperial in Chase County left two people hospitalized Monday afternoon.

According to the Chase County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred around 3 p.m. when a southbound 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche collided with the rear of a New Holland TV145 tractor, also traveling south, at highway speeds. Authorities say there was no evidence of braking before impact.

Imperial Police Officer Chris Bustillos was en route to another call when he came upon the scene and relayed initial information to dispatch. Chase County Sheriff’s Sgt. Justin Mueller was the first responding deputy and found the crash blocking both lanes of Highway 61.

The driver of the pickup was identified as Michael Kuskie, 36, of Ogallala, Neb. His passenger was Victoria Willard, 30, also of Ogallala. Kuskie was outside the vehicle, while Willard remained seated in the passenger seat. Sgt. Mueller provided first aid guidance to the pair until Chase County EMS and the Imperial Volunteer Fire Department arrived.

The tractor’s driver, Nicholas Day, 40, of Madrid, Neb., was evaluated at the scene and released uninjured. Kuskie and Willard were transported to Chase County Community Hospital by medical ambulance. Authorities reported Willard sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Highway 61 was closed for approximately one hour while crews worked to separate the pickup and the tractor and clear debris.

Kuskie was cited for driving under suspension. Investigators noted neither Kuskie nor Willard was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say additional charges may be filed.