Second victim dies after crash near Pilger
Stanton County officials say 79-year-old driver died from injuries in a one-vehicle crash that also killed his wife at the scene
Photos from Stanton County Sheriff's Office
Press release
PILGER, Neb. — A second person has died following a one-vehicle crash earlier this month near Pilger, according to the Stanton County Sheriff’s Office.
Richard Erwin, 79, of Laurel, died from injuries he sustained in the March 7 crash at the junction of Highway 275 and Highway 15. His wife, Ellen Erwin, 77, also of Laurel, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The crash happened just before 10:10 a.m. when a southbound pickup driven by Richard Erwin failed to stop at a stop sign at Highway 275. The vehicle veered southwest across the highway, became airborne for more than 40 feet, struck a dirt embankment and rolled onto its side.
Both occupants were trapped in the wreckage. Richard Erwin was extricated by Pilger and Wisner Fire and Rescue personnel and flown from the scene by medical helicopter to a Lincoln hospital in critical condition.
Authorities said seat belts were in use and airbags deployed. The Stanton County Sheriff’s Office said it is possible a medical episode led to the crash, which remains under investigation.
The sheriff’s office extended its deepest sympathy to the Erwin family and the Laurel community.