MERRICK COUNTY — A Grand Island man died on Tuesday after his car collided with a farm tractor about 10 miles south of Fullerton.
Zachary M. Lepant, 28, of Grand Island was driving south on State Highway 14 near Q Road when a John Deere 4440 crossed over into his lane, striking Lepant's 2022 Hyundai Venue. Lepant was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the tractor, James Wetovick, 22, of Fullerton was transported to a local hospital and later released.
The investigation is ongoing, but authorities say alcohol or drugs are not considered factors in the crash.
“Anytime there is the tragic loss of life we are reminded just how fragile life can be,” said Capt. Jake Bauer of the Merrick County Sheriff’s Office. “We are keeping Mr. Lepant’s wife, family, and friends as well as the Wetovick family in our constant thoughts and prayers.”
The Merrick County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the Central City Ambulance, the Central City Volunteer Fire Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol Crash Reconstruction Unit.
“We, as an agency, are thankful for the collaboration between our local emergency services,” Bauer said. “These types of incidents are also difficult for first responders and if we were not able to work together as a team our ability to assist those truly in need would be hampered.”