Columbus, Neb. — Chance Becker, a 32‑year‑old man from Utica, was killed early on Christmas Eve after being struck by a passing pickup truck on Highway 81 just west of Columbus. Deputies from the Platte County Sheriff’s Office were called to the scene around 6:30 a.m. on Dec. 24 after reports of a person struck by a vehicle.
Investigators say Becker had pulled his 2001 Dodge pickup, which was hauling a 1999 Carry‑On trailer, to the roadside. He had stepped out to check on the trailer when a northbound pickup collided with him. Becker was found dead at the scene.
In the hours after the crash, officers worked to piece together what happened and temporarily shut down the stretch of Highway 81 for about five hours while a reconstruction was conducted. The Nebraska State Patrol assisted in that effort at the request of the sheriff’s office.
Later in the afternoon, sheriff’s officials identified the driver of the truck that struck Becker as an 84‑year‑old man from Columbus. So far, authorities have said the man has not been cited in connection with the crash.
Weather conditions may have contributed to the tragedy. At the time of the crash, dense fog and a light drizzle made visibility poor along the highway, according to law enforcement.
Officials also noted that neither alcohol nor drugs appear to have played a role in the incident. The airbags in the other vehicle did not deploy, and deputies were not yet sure whether the 84‑year‑old driver had been wearing a seat belt.
The Platte County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the crash alongside the Nebraska State Patrol. They’re asking anyone who witnessed the collision or who has information to contact authorities at the Platte County Sheriff’s Office or Platte County Area Crime Stoppers.
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