07/31/2026
This is Ashley Shaughnessy and Oscar Ferguson, Who were Identified as Victims in Fatal Highway 8 Crash Near Steele City
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Neb. — Two people were killed in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 8 near Steele City on Tuesday, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. Authorities have identified the victims as Ashley Shaughnessy, 32, of Marysville, Kansas, and Oscar D. Ferguson, 57, of Beatrice, Nebraska.
Investigators say both drivers suffered fatal injuries in the collision and were pronounced dead as a result of the crash.
The deadly crash occurred on Highway 8 near Steele City in Jefferson County. Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following reports of a serious two-vehicle collision.
Despite the efforts of first responders, both Ashley Shaughnessy and Oscar Ferguson succumbed to the injuries they sustained in the crash.
Authorities have not yet released information regarding the types of vehicles involved or the circumstances surrounding the collision.
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office said the crash remains under active investigation as deputies work to determine what caused the fatal collision.
Officials noted that there were no known witnesses to the accident, making the investigation more challenging. Investigators are continuing to examine evidence from the scene to determine the events leading up to the crash.
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has information that could assist investigators to come forward.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office at 402-729-2284.
Additional details about the fatal crash are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.