A veteran police officer tragically lost his life in a devastating crash that occurred in Ceresco, Nebraska. Officer Ross Bartlett, aged 54, was involved in the incident while conducting a routine traffic stop on Highway 77. The Nebraska State Patrol reported that Officer Bartlett had pulled over a vehicle and was seated in his cruiser when a pickup truck collided with his vehicle from behind, pushing it into the stopped car.
Emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene to find bystanders rendering aid to Officer Bartlett and the other individuals involved in the collision. Officer Bartlett was airlifted to a hospital in Lincoln, where he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the stopped car sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while the pickup truck driver, fortunately, escaped major harm.
Officer Bartlett, who had been serving since 2017 with the Ceresco Police Department and the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, was also a dedicated member of the Ceresco Volunteer Fire Department. Described as a highly professional and personable officer, Officer Bartlett's untimely passing has deeply impacted his colleagues and the community.
Ceresco Police Chief Tony Hernandez expressed his profound sorrow at the loss, highlighting Officer Bartlett's significant contributions to the department. Governor Jim Pillen has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Officer Bartlett until the day of his burial.
With a 30-year career in law enforcement, Officer Bartlett had previously served in various capacities with multiple police departments in Nebraska. The State Patrol is conducting an investigation into the crash and will present its findings to the Lancaster County Attorney's Office for further action.
Ceresco, a close-knit community located north of Lincoln, is mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant and beloved member of law enforcement. Funeral arrangements for Officer Bartlett are currently pending as the community comes together to honor his memory.
