Rebekah Guilford Obituary, Death – A fatal car crash in Saunders County on Sunday afternoon claimed the life of a Lincoln woman and left two others injured, according to local authorities. The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m. on Highway 79, roughly two miles north of Prague. Deputies from the Saunders County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a multi-vehicle collision involving several injuries.
Preliminary findings from the investigation revealed that a gray Honda Civic, driven by 25-year-old Rebekah Guilford of Lincoln, was heading north on Highway 79 when the vehicle crossed over the center line. As Guilford attempted to correct her course, the car collided head-on with a black Lincoln MKZ traveling southbound on the same highway.
The impact of the crash was severe. Emergency personnel arrived to find that Guilford had sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Lincoln MKZ, 45-year-old Enereo Cervantes of Columbus, was seriously injured in the collision. He had to be extricated from his vehicle by first responders before being transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of multiple injuries.
A passenger in Cervantes’ vehicle was also hurt in the crash. That individual was likewise taken to a local hospital with injuries described as multiple but not life-threatening. Their identity has not been released at this time.
Authorities noted that all individuals involved in the crash were wearing seat belts, which likely helped reduce the severity of the injuries sustained by the survivors. Investigators also stated that alcohol does not appear to have played a role in the collision.
The Saunders County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the cause of the accident, although initial reports suggest the crash resulted from a momentary loss of control after the northbound vehicle crossed the center line.
The tragic incident has raised concerns about the risks associated with rural highway driving, particularly on two-lane roads where even a brief miscalculation can result in a head-on collision. Local officials are once again urging drivers to stay alert and cautious behind the wheel, especially when traveling at highway speeds.
The community is mourning the loss of Rebekah Guilford, whose sudden death has left a void for her family and friends. Meanwhile, thoughts and support are extended to the injured victims and their loved ones as they recover from the traumatic event.
More details may be released as the investigation progresses and authorities complete their review of the crash. For now, the incident stands as a sobering reminder of the importance of defensive driving and constant attention on the road.