Nebraska state flags are flying at half-staff following the passing of a Ceresco Police officer whose patrol unit was struck during a traffic stop Friday night.
The Nebraska State Patrol says at approximately 7:37 p.m. Central, a 911 call was received regarding a multi-vehicle crash about one mile south of Ceresco on Highway 77. Responding agencies began arriving within four minutes and found bystanders assisting Officer Ross Bartlett and the others involved in the crash.
Officer Bartlett, 54, was life-flighted to Bryan Health West Campus by Star Care. Despite the efforts of many bystanders, first responders, and medical personnel, Officer Bartlett succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased Friday evening at the hospital.
Preliminary investigation shows Officer Bartlett’s patrol vehicle and a Nissan Altima were parked on the shoulder of the highway during the traffic stop. While both Bartlett and the driver of the Nissan were seated in their own vehicles, a southbound Ford F-150 struck the Ceresco PD cruiser from the rear, causing it to hit the Nissan.
The driver of the Nissan, Ke’vion Hill, 27, of Lincoln, suffered serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. He was transported to Bryan Health West Campus. The driver of the Ford, Tony Pierce, 49, of Crete, was not seriously injured.
Word of the tragic collision and loss of Officer Bartlett quickly drew condolences from officials. Governor Jim Pillen said “This is a terrible loss for those who worked with Officer Bartlett through NDCS and those in the community who knew him through his law enforcement work. He was a dedicated public servant who answered the noble call to serve in various communities throughout his 30-year career.”
Officer Bartlett has served with Ceresco PD and as an investigator for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services since 2017. He also served as a volunteer firefighter for Ceresco. Prior to those assignments, he served with the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Madison Police Department, and Newman Grove Police Department.
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer said in a statement “Bruce and I are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Ceresco Police Officer Ross Bartlett. We send our deepest condolences to Officer Bartlett’s family and friends and to the entire Ceresco community in the wake of this tragedy. It takes profound courage and selflessness to serve as a law enforcement officer, and we are forever grateful for your service.”
“Susanne and I were devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Officer Ross Bartlett. Our deepest condolences go to Officer Bartlett’s family and friends, and the entire Ceresco community. We will never forget his service and sacrifice, and we reaffirm our gratitude to the men and women who risk their lives each day to keep our communities safe,” said U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts.
The Nebraska State Patrol is conducting a full crash reconstruction investigation. Once complete, the findings will be presented to the Lancaster County Attorney’s Office.
Funeral services are pending, with flags ordered to be flown at half-staff until 5 p.m. on the day of Officer Bartlett’s burial.
