Robert Riehm Obituary, Death – The Nevada State Police Highway Patrol has released the identity of the man who died in a fatal rollover crash earlier this month near Fallon. Authorities confirmed that the victim was 65-year-old Robert Riehm, a local resident, who lost his life in the September 3 accident on Wildes Road near Crook Road.
According to officials, the crash occurred at approximately 3:50 p.m. that afternoon. Preliminary findings from investigators show that Riehm had been driving a 2018 Chevrolet Impala westbound along Wildes Road when the accident unfolded. Reports indicate that he attempted to pass another vehicle, entering the eastbound lane in the process. During the maneuver, his vehicle veered onto the south shoulder of the roadway, where it struck a power pole before overturning.
The collision caused catastrophic damage to the vehicle and severe injuries to Riehm. Police confirmed that he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, which resulted in him being ejected from the car. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital, but despite their efforts, he was later pronounced dead.
The force of the crash also caused significant disruption in the area. Authorities shut down Wildes Road in both directions between Testolin Road and Pasture Road for several hours while crews worked at the scene. Traffic was rerouted as investigators examined the site and utility crews dealt with the damaged power pole. The road was eventually reopened later that evening once the scene was cleared and considered safe for motorists.
The Nevada Highway Patrol’s Northern Command Major Incident Reconstruction Team has taken over the investigation. Their role is to analyze all factors that may have contributed to the crash, including vehicle condition, road design, weather conditions, and driver actions. Investigators will also consider whether speed, distraction, or other elements may have played a role. As of now, authorities have not released additional details beyond the initial findings.
Riehm’s death underscores the importance of seatbelt use, as law enforcement frequently reminds drivers that seatbelts are one of the most effective protections in rollover crashes. Ejection from a vehicle, such as in this case, often results in far more severe injuries and a significantly lower chance of survival.
For the Fallon community, the loss of Riehm is deeply felt, as the incident highlights both the dangers of rural roadways and the devastating consequences of a single mistake behind the wheel. Family, friends, and neighbors now mourn the sudden passing of a man who lived in the area his entire life.
As the investigation continues, the Nevada State Police have said that more information will be shared once it becomes available. For now, the case serves as a somber reminder of the risks motorists face on highways and local roads, and of the importance of caution, patience, and safety practices such as wearing seatbelts when driving.
