Nebraska man dead after crashing into tree during pursuit, authorities say

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – A man died Sunday after a pursuit with a Saunders County sheriff’s deputy, authorities said in a press release.

Tyler Persons, 29, of Ashland was pronounced dead at the scene by Ashland Fire and Rescue, the Saunders County Sheriff’s Office said.

Around 2:30 a.m., a deputy notified dispatch that they were in pursuit of a vehicle driving north on 16th Street in Ashland.

About a minute later, Ashland Fire and Rescue was called to assist, as the deputy reported a crash involving the pursued vehicle.

Persons left the road and struck a tree, the sheriff’s office said.

Officials say Persons was not using a seat belt at the time of the crash.

The Nebraska State Patrol, as well as the Ashland Police Department, are investigating the crash since it occurred during a pursuit.

A grand jury investigation will also take place, according to the sheriff’s office.