The quiet town of Coleridge, Nebraska is reeling after the sudden death of 72-year-old Philip M. Durham from a two-vehicle collision Wednesday night, November 5. The accident occurred at around 9:30 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 20 and Highway 57 in Belden, Nebraska, Cedar County, just outside the town.
According to preliminary information from the Nebraska State Patrol, Durham was driving a sedan—a Ford Focus—southbound on Highway 57 when the vehicle failed to stop at a stop sign at the Hwy 20 intersection. The sedan collided with the side of a commercial semi‐trailer that was heading westbound on Highway 20. Durham was pronounced dead at the scene.
Also riding in the sedan was a teenage passenger who sustained serious injuries and was air-lifted to Children’s Hospital & Medical Center Omaha for specialised care. Fortunately, the semi-trailer’s driver emerged uninjured. The State Patrol continues to investigate the crash.
Emergency response units from several agencies demonstrated remarkable coordination: the Cedar County Sheriff’s Office, Wayne Police Department, Randolph Fire & Rescue, and Belden Fire & Rescue all assisted alongside the State Patrol to secure the scene, render aid, and manage the flow of traffic during the incident.
Friends and neighbours in Coleridge remember Philip Durham as a deeply caring, solid man whose presence meant a lot to the small community. His kindness, steady character and willingness to help left a meaningful mark on those around him. An obituary confirms his passing “near Belden, Nebraska as a result of an automobile accident.”
In the wake of this tragedy, the town has rallied tightly around the families affected. Support messages and offers of help are pouring in for both the loved ones of Durham and the injured teenager. The loss has stirred many to reflect on the fragility of life and the value of community.
While the investigation remains ongoing and the full sequence of events at the intersection of Hwy 20 and Hwy 57 is yet to be finalised, the community of Coleridge now mourns the loss of one of its own and keeps the wounded teen and their family in their thoughts and prayers. Durham’s memory—his legacy of warmth and devotion to others—will live on in the hearts of those he touched.