Omaha, Nebraska – A sudden road collapse in Omaha’s Aksarben neighborhood created a massive sinkhole Tuesday afternoon, trapping two vehicles and shutting down a busy stretch of Pacific Street. Authorities say both drivers escaped safely despite the dramatic scene.
The incident happened shortly after 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, when officers responded to reports of an accident near the intersection of 67th Street and Pacific Street. Upon arrival, police discovered that the roadway had given way, causing two vehicles to fall into a large sinkhole just east of the intersection.
Incident Overview
According to the Omaha Police Department, a silver Dodge Ram pickup and a maroon Jeep SUV were caught in the sinkhole after the pavement collapsed beneath them. Photos from the scene showed the vehicles angled upward, with their front ends tilted toward the edge of the hole.
Both drivers were inside their vehicles when the collapse occurred but were able to exit safely.
Officer Sarah Martier confirmed that no injuries were reported in the incident. Emergency responders quickly secured the area to prevent further accidents.
Timeline of Events
Police say they were dispatched to the intersection shortly after 3:30 p.m. following reports of a crash. When officers arrived, they discovered that the crash was the result of a roadway collapse rather than a typical collision.
The sinkhole had formed in the eastbound lanes of Pacific Street, swallowing portions of the roadway and trapping the two vehicles.
Traffic advisories were issued later that afternoon, warning drivers to avoid the area as crews assessed the damage and worked to remove the vehicles.
Details From Police
Officer Sarah Martier explained that both drivers managed to escape with assistance from bystanders.
“The truck driver climbed out of the sinkhole, and he and bystanders then helped the SUV driver out,” Martier said.
Authorities emphasized that the quick response from both the drivers and nearby witnesses likely prevented injuries.
OPD Lt. Dan Martin confirmed that the sinkhole spans both westbound lanes and extends underground, creating additional structural concerns beneath the surface.
Police later confirmed that both vehicles were removed from the sinkhole and towed from the scene.
Key Facts
- Date: Tuesday, Feb. 24
- Time: Shortly after 3:30 p.m.
- Location: 67th Street and Pacific Street, Aksarben neighborhood
- Vehicles involved: Silver Dodge Ram pickup, Maroon Jeep SUV
- Injuries: None reported
- Road closure: Pacific Street closed from 66th to 69th Street
Traffic Impact and Road Closures
Following the collapse, authorities shut down Pacific Street between 66th Street and 69th Street. Eastbound and westbound traffic was diverted as crews evaluated the structural damage.
While Pacific Street remains closed in the affected area, vehicles are still permitted to travel north and south on 67th Street.
Drivers were urged to use alternate routes and remain alert for changing traffic conditions as city officials assess repairs.
Additional Context: Why Sinkholes Form
Sinkholes can develop suddenly when underground voids weaken the surface above. Factors such as aging infrastructure, water main breaks, soil erosion, and heavy rainfall can contribute to roadway collapses.
Urban areas with underground utility systems are particularly vulnerable if water infiltration erodes supporting soil layers beneath pavement.
Although rare, roadway sinkholes can pose serious risks to motorists, especially when they occur during peak traffic hours.
Public Safety Reminder
Officials remind drivers to remain cautious when traveling through construction zones or areas with visible road damage. Warning signs such as cracks, depressions, or pooling water may indicate underlying instability.
If a roadway collapse is suspected, motorists should avoid the area and contact local authorities immediately.
Conclusion
The sudden sinkhole at 67th and Pacific caused significant traffic disruption but fortunately resulted in no injuries. Quick action by the drivers, bystanders, and responding officers ensured everyone involved was safely rescued.
City crews continue to assess the structural integrity of the roadway as repairs move forward.
If you were in the area or experienced traffic delays due to the closure, share your experiences in the comments below.
