On This Date In 1979 The Unthinkable Happened In Nebraska

On July 12, 1979, the small community of Waterloo, Nebraska was struck by an unthinkable tragedy when first responders here died after responding to a false alarm.

According to new reports, five first responders in this small town along the Platte River in eastern Nebraska were called out to assist a car that was seen in a ditch.

Enroute, their journey would be cut short by an oncoming train and three of the first responders died as a result.

Google Maps [streetview]

Their vehicle was nothing more than a pile of smashed rubble when all was said and done.

This tragic accident seems like yesterday.

Related Stories

These 20 One-Room Schoolhouses In Nebraska Will Take You Back In Time

These Little-Known Underground Spaces Are Relics Of Another Era In Nebraska

You'll Never Forget the Story of This Popular Hill in Nebraska

Facebook/Waterloo Volunteer Fire Department

Steve Campbell, Sterling Embrey and Terry Mazur made the ultimate sacrifice on July 12, 1979. They died after responding to an emergency call. And as if tragedy wasn't bad enough, the call turned out to be a false alarm.

In 1979, Waterloo, Nebraska had 450 residents. Today there are just shy of 900. With another anniversary comes another memorial for the fearless lives of the lost first responders in Waterloo. Their dedication to the Waterloo community surely will never be forgotten.

Anniversaries of tragedy are opportunities to honor the fallen. This is Nebraska’s chance to join Waterloo in doing so today.

Nebraska has had its share of tragedy. Read here about another horrible day in our state.