From Holt County Attorney Brent Kelly.
On October 7, 2024, at approximately 6:00 a.m, first responders from O’Neill Fire Department and O’Neill Police Department were dispatched to an explosion and structure fire on the Saint Mary’s and Saint Patrick’s campuses near Avera Saint Anthony’s Hospital.
First responders on the scene identified a vehicle that they believed was associated with the incident. The O’Neill Police Department initiated an investigation into the cause of the incident, and were assisted by the Fire Marshall, Nebraska State Patrol, ATF, and County Attorney’s Office.
That investigation led to the identification of the driver of the vehicle, a 58-year-old male Guatemalan national. With the assistance of an interpreter, that individual cooperated with investigators before being transported to the University of Nebraska Medical Center. His condition is unknown to investigators at this time.
At the time of this release and based upon a review of the witness interviews and medical records, there is no evidence that the individual was under the influence of any alcohol or intoxicating substances.
The initial findings indicate that the vehicle had a low-speed collision with and damaged the gas line feeding the Parish Center building approximately 50 minutes prior to the explosion. During that time period, natural gas leaked into the building and eventually ignited, causing the explosion and fire. The blast caused severe damage to surrounding homes, classrooms, and the hospital.
This matter will remain under investigation and further updates will be provided if and when they are available.