Alcohol believed to be a factor in Monday injury accident in north Beatrice

BEATRICE, Neb. - Beatrice Police say alcohol is believed to have been a factor in a crash that injured five people Monday evening south of Hickory Road on Highway 77.

Investigators report that a northbound vehicle, driven by Michael Lueders Jr., rear-ended another vehicle, then crossed the median and collided with a southbound motorist.

Lueders’ passenger, Tiffany Lueders, was airlifted to Bryan West in Lincoln by Star Care. Lueders Jr. was transported to Bryan West by ambulance.

Tiffany Lueders is believed to have had a head and back injury, after hitting the windshield. She is not believed to have been wearing a seatbelt. 

Three others — occupants of the vehicles that were struck — were taken to Beatrice Community Hospital, with one later transferred to Lincoln for additional care. 

Police say charges against Lueders Jr. are pending as he remains hospitalized.