Omaha changes traffic signals at intersection of deadly crash

Signal Changes at 114th and West Center Road

Omaha city officials moved quickly to reconfigure the traffic signals at 114th Street and West Center Road in the days following a fatal collision. According to KETV, the new timing, which mandates protected-only left turns for both eastbound and westbound traffic, was implemented within five days of the incident. The city has completely removed the flashing yellow arrows that previously allowed for permitted left turns, replacing them with consistent red-arrow signals.

The Omaha Public Works Traffic Division confirmed that crews will continue to monitor the intersection to adjust timing as necessary to balance traffic flow with the new safety requirements. Mayor John W. Ewing Jr. noted that the city acted after receiving input from residents who had long-standing concerns regarding the intersection’s previous signal configuration.

Legal Status of Tanner Hunt and Crash Investigation

The fatal crash occurred on July 9 when a Subaru Impreza, occupied by 10-year-old Prestin Strassenburg and 5-year-old Zaiden Strassenburg, was struck by a Chevrolet Malibu. KMTV reported that the force of the collision was sufficient to split the Subaru in half. Both boys eventually died from their injuries.

Tanner Hunt, 28, faces multiple charges in connection with the incident. Prosecutors allege Hunt was driving approximately 98 mph—more than double the posted speed limit—one second before the impact. Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine stated that he intends to file additional counts of motor vehicle homicide and driving under the influence following the death of the second child. Investigators have indicated that a combination of alcohol and Adderall played a role in the crash.

Hunt is currently held at the Douglas County Jail on a $10 million bond. As the legal proceedings move forward, the city has maintained its focus on both infrastructure adjustments and public behavior.

“As the City works to adjust physical infrastructure, we are acutely aware that safety on our streets depends heavily on the decisions made behind the wheel. We appeal to every Omahan to drive responsibly, respect speed limits, and never drive under the influence.”

Community Support and Ongoing Safety Concerns

The community has rallied to support the Strassenburg family. A GoFundMe campaign established for the family has surpassed $130,000 in donations. Additionally, a benefit event is scheduled for September 13 at the American Legion Millard Post 374.

While the city addresses the specific conditions at 114th and West Center, other neighborhoods continue to advocate for similar infrastructure improvements. In Lincoln, residents have spent decades pushing for traffic interventions at South 9th and 10th streets, citing ongoing safety risks. Klkntv that Lincoln Transportation and Utilities is currently identifying long-term solutions for that area, emphasizing that securing necessary funding remains a primary hurdle in implementing changes for high-volume intersections.