One dead after crash with train near Kearney

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday is investigating a crash with a train that left one man dead.

First responders were called to Highway 30 near Cherry Avenue, just outside the Kearney city limits, at 12:30 p.m.

An investigation shows that a van was driving west on Highway 30 when a Union Pacific Railroad train was backing up on a track that crosses the highway, the sheriff’s office said.

As the train was backing up, it collided with the van, authorities said in a press release.

The van, occupied by a driver and one passenger, had “significant damage,” according to officials.

Authorities said the driver, 72-year-old Ronald Ayers of Kearney, was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy will be performed.

The female passenger did not suffer any injuries.

Highway 30 was closed for four hours.

This is a developing story. Check back with Channel 8 for updates.