What happened Monday at 192nd and L streets? We are learning new details about the crash that injured three people. Douglas County investigators are still awaiting blood test results and say tickets will be issued.
One look at the aftermath and anyone can tell it was serious. Chris Hoffman says he was the first witness on the scene after following the red Camry.
“The red car merged into the turn lane, the black car was weaving in and out and I think the red car turned back into my lane to avoid a collision with him and at that point he merged back, they both collided in the middle of the intersection and his car was going so fast, his car kept going another 70, 75 feet, hit a telephone pole and just exploded."
The engine of the black Audi SUV was thrown on impact. Hoffman's first concern was getting help on the way. Inside the Camry were the 18-year-old driver, Peter Oster, and his passenger, 16-year-old Zoe Hatfield.
"They didn't look as bad as the guy in the black car,” said Hoffman. “I could tell the young man was going to have some leg injuries by how the door was kind of caved in on him."
The driver of the Audi, 39-year-old Christopher Sima, had to be taken to Creighton University Medical Center by helicopter. He was initially trying to get up and move around. “We were just like, you got to sit still man, help's on the way, be calm."
Douglas County Chief Deputy Marty Bilek says charges will likely be filed against Sima, but what exactly is still unclear. "It appears speed was a factor, it appears the vehicle was being driven in a reckless manner and we are also checking to see if alcohol was a factor."
Hoffman's thoughts are with all the victims and he's hoping they recover. "That's something I've never seen before, but yeah, I don't think anything in life could really prepare anyone for seeing something like that."
Investigators expect the blood tests to be back Thursday. After that, specific charges will be determined. Creighton University Medical Center has not updated the conditions of the victims.
