Executive Summary
- Two pedestrians were killed in separate fatal hit-and-run crashes in Omaha over a single weekend.
- The first victim was a 29-year-old man struck early Sunday morning; the second was 63-year-old Osborne Henderson Jr., who was killed on Friday.
- Omaha police are searching for both drivers, although the truck from the Sunday incident has been recovered.
- The current state penalty for leaving the scene of a fatal accident is a maximum of four years, but more severe charges could be applied.
OMAHA, Neb. – The Omaha Police Department is actively investigating two separate hit-and-run incidents that resulted in the deaths of two pedestrians in recent days. Authorities are searching for the drivers involved as community members and officials discuss the legal penalties for such crimes.
Sunday Morning Fatality
Early Sunday morning at approximately 1 a.m., first responders were called to the area of 26th Avenue and Douglas Street. According to witness reports, a 29-year-old man was walking in the street when he was struck by a truck. The driver of the truck fled the scene without stopping. The victim was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries. While police have since located the vehicle involved, the driver remains at large.
Friday Incident Captured on Camera
In a separate incident last Friday, 63-year-old Osborne Henderson Jr. was fatally struck by a pickup truck while crossing 84th Street near Blondo. The driver in that case also did not stop. A security camera at a nearby business captured the event. Tom McGuire, who works in the area, described the footage, stating the pedestrian waited at the corner before attempting to cross, at which point the truck, which had also stopped, suddenly accelerated and ran him over.
Legal Penalties Discussed
Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine, speaking generally on the topic, noted that leaving the scene of a fatal crash is a Class 3 felony in Nebraska, carrying a maximum sentence of four years. However, he clarified that additional charges, such as manslaughter or motor vehicle homicide, could be filed if evidence indicates intoxication or reckless driving, potentially increasing the prison sentence to 20 years. Kleine emphasized the effectiveness of police investigations in these cases, warning that drivers who flee will likely be apprehended.
As the investigations continue, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.