GIPD Investigates Fatal Crash on U.S. Highway 281

Grand Island, Neb. — The Grand Island Police Department is investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash that occurred early Thursday morning on U.S. Highway 281 south of Grand Island.

At approximately 5:20 a.m., officers responded to a crash approximately a fifth of a mile north of Wildwood Drive involving a southbound 2015 gray Ford F-150 and a northbound 2010 Chevrolet Equinox.

The preliminary investigation indicates the Chevrolet Equinox crossed the median and entered oncoming traffic in the southbound lanes, resulting in a collision with the Ford F-150. The driver of the Ford F-150, 38-year-old Miguel Cardenas-Valencia, of Texas, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Next of kin have been notified.

The Chevrolet Equinox was driven by 25-year-old Cody Bailey, of Grand Island. A passenger, 28-year-old Luis Alvarado, of Grand Island, was also inside the Equinox. Both individuals sustained critical injuries and were transported from the scene before being airlifted for further treatment. It is unknown at this time if drugs and/or alcohol were involved.

The crash remains under investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Highway 281 is officially back open to traffic in both the north and southbound lanes. The total closure lasted from about 6 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.