A Millard family says they narrowly escaped serious injury after an alleged drunk driver lost control and crashed his SUV directly into their yard — while they were standing outside.
What Happened?
Jeremy Rosenbalm was outside with his family collecting mail when an SUV came barreling down 138th Street and crashed into their yard, striking two parked cars. The entire incident was captured on the family’s security camera.
How Drunk Was the Driver?
Omaha police cited the driver for a first-time DUI after his blood alcohol content was measured at 0.262 — more than three times the legal limit of 0.08.
Seconds From Disaster
The family had just walked to the curb to grab their garbage cans and check the mail when it happened.
“Next thing you know, he comes barreling down 138th, apparently missing the wheel, right through the front yard and crashed into two vehicles,” Rosenbalm said.
The family ran across the street and called 911 while watching the driver attempt to flee the scene.
Driver Tried to Escape
Police records show the driver had already struck a light pole at 138th and Birchwood just seconds before crashing into the yard.
“We heard him trying to pull out, trying to back up off of the driveway and the retaining wall, but I was already on the phone with 911,” Rosenbalm said.
Family Says It Could Have Been Much Worse
Rosenbalm pointed out that 138th Street sees heavy pedestrian and bike traffic daily.
“Somebody could have been killed walking or riding their bike, or us killed right here in the yard. It was scary,” he said.
A Dangerous Intersection
This is not the first crash at this location. Rosenbalm says a few years ago another driver crashed through a fence nearby, and a two-vehicle wreck occurred at the same intersection.
Family Wants Change
Rosenbalm says Sunday’s crash was a wake-up call.
“It’s just somebody’s driving that impaired. Something drastic should happen. He can’t be driving around like that,” he said.
— Coverage by thecmeaglet.com
