Crash alert: Elwood fire chief killed in head-on crash while responding to fire

ELWOOD, NE – Flags were flying at half staff in Nebraska Wednesday in honor of Elwood Fire Chief Darren Krull, who was killed in a crash last week while responding to a fire.

According to KETV, the accident happened on Highway 283 north of Arapahoe on April 7 at about 5:10 p.m. Krull, 54, was a passenger in a Ford Expedition assisting in a fire response in southwest Nebraska.

The Nebraska State Patrol said a truck hauling water crashed into the Ford head-on.  Krull was pronounced dead at the scene.  The driver of the Ford,  40-year-old Phelps County emergency manager Justin Norris, was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries but was later listed in stable condition.

The NSP said there were zero-visibility conditions on Highway 283 at the time of the accident due to fire and smoke in the area.  Troopers are continuing their investigation into the incident.

Krull was laid to rest Wednesday at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Elwood in services attended by fire departments from across the state, KSNB reported.

Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts released a statement that read in part, “The bravery shown by Fire Chief Krull exemplifies the selfless service that makes our state great. As we reflect on his heroic sacrifice, we’re reminded of the courageous firefighters working in harm’s way across Nebraska to protect lives and property. We salute their dedication and pray for their safety.”

If you have lost a family member in a crash caused by a negligent or reckless driver, you may be entitled to significant compensation through a wrongful death claim. At Rensch and Rensch Law, our Nebraska wrongful death lawyers have the skill and experience to obtain the money you and your family are entitled to. Contact us today to schedule a free legal consultation where we can discuss your case, by calling 800-471-4100 or filling out our online form.