BROKEN BOW – A 9 year old Broken Bow boy was seriously injured Monday afternoon, July 13, 2026 after his bicycle collided with a utility pickup truck at the intersection of South Eighth Avenue and South H Street.
According to the Broken Bow Police Department, officers responded to the crash at approximately 4:04 p.m. in the 800 block of South Eighth Avenue.
A preliminary investigation indicates the utility pickup was traveling south on South Eighth Avenue when the juvenile, who was riding a bicycle and crossing South Eighth Avenue at South H Street, entered the intersection. Police said based on the preliminary investigation, it appears the bicyclist failed to stop at the westbound stop sign before entering the intersection.
The child was transported by Broken Bow Ambulance Service to Jennie M. Melham Memorial Medical Center before being airlifted to an Omaha hospital because of the serious injuries sustained in the crash.
“Our thoughts are with the young victim, his family, and everyone affected by this incident,” the Broken Bow Police Department said in a statement. “We recognize that incidents involving children have a profound impact on our entire community, and we appreciate the patience and understanding of the public.”
Police said the child was wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet at the time of the collision.
“While the extent to which a helmet affected the outcome of this collision cannot be determined, bicycle helmets are designed to significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries,” the police department said. “This incident is a reminder of the importance of wearing a helmet every time you ride.”
The department is encouraging parents to ensure children wear properly fitted helmets and reminds bicyclists of all ages to obey traffic laws, remain alert and make themselves as visible as possible. Motorists are also urged to watch carefully for pedestrians and bicyclists, particularly in residential neighborhoods and areas where children may be present.
The Broken Bow Police Department thanked the Broken Bow Ambulance Service and the Custer County Sheriff’s Office for assisting at the scene.
