Authorities seek semi involved in Monday accident

McCOOK, Nebraska -- The Nebraska State Patrol is looking for a semi-truck tractor-trailer rig involved in an accident at 6:09 p.m., Monday, on Highway 6&34 four miles east of McCook, Nebraska.

Three occupants of a van were injured and taken to Community Hospital of McCook when the van swerved to avoid a collision with the truck that continued westbound.

Nebraska State Patrol Trooper Bryan Walter reports that Maria Hernandez, 60 years old, of Fort Morgan, Colorado, was driving a 2004 GMC Yukon westbound when the semi-truck passed her and merged back into the westbound lane before the trailer cleared the Hernandez van.

To avoid a collision, Hernandez swerved onto the north shoulder. She lost control, the vehicle crossed the highway, drove through the south ditch and came to rest in a corn stubble field.

Ambulances from McCook and Indianola transported Hernandez and two juvenile occupants to the hospital in McCook, where they were treated for their injuries.

All six occupants of the Hernandez vehicle were wearing seat belts, the trooper's report indicates. There was minor damage to the van.

Anyone having information about the identity of the semi-truck driver is encouraged to call the Nebraska State Patrol at (308) 535-8047.