OMAHA, NE — The Omaha Police Department has confirmed the death of a second victim involved in the deadly crash that occurred in South Omaha on June 26, 2025. Lionel Martinez, 24, succumbed to his injuries days after the collision, which had already claimed the life of the driver, 22-year-old Edwin Dubon. The tragic incident, which involved high-speed driving, has left the community grieving the loss of two young men and a teenage girl seriously injured.
Martinez, who had been riding as the front passenger in the vehicle, was rushed to Nebraska Medicine following the crash, where he had been in critical condition. Despite efforts to save his life, he passed away from his injuries on Sunday, July 6. This marks the second fatality from the incident, with Dubon, the driver, having been pronounced dead at the scene.
The Crash: High-Speed Impact and Devastating Consequences
According to the Omaha Police Department, the crash occurred when the vehicle, traveling north on 13th Street at an extremely high speed, lost control. The car veered off the road and slammed into a retaining wall with significant force. The crash’s impact was so severe that both Dubon and Martinez were ejected from the vehicle. The circumstances leading to the crash remain under investigation, and police have not yet confirmed whether alcohol, drugs, or other factors contributed to the high-speed collision.
Emergency responders were quick to arrive at the scene, where they found Dubon already deceased. Martinez, in critical condition, was immediately transported to Nebraska Medicine, where he remained until his death a few days later. The crash also involved a third passenger, a 15-year-old girl who had been sitting in the back seat at the time of the collision.
The Teenager’s Survival: A Close Call and Ongoing Recovery
The 15-year-old girl, who remains unnamed at this time, was trapped inside the car after the crash. The vehicle caught fire shortly after the collision, posing a serious threat to her life. First responders acted quickly, rescuing the girl from the burning wreckage and flying her to a specialized burn unit outside the state for treatment. Authorities have not released updates regarding her current condition, but it is believed that she suffered severe injuries, given the circumstances of the crash and fire.
Her survival, despite the horrific nature of the crash and subsequent fire, has been a source of relief amidst the tragedy. The young girl’s recovery remains a critical focus for her family and medical professionals, though details on her progress remain scarce.
Investigation: Uncertainty Surrounds Contributing Factors
The Omaha Police Department has stated that the investigation into the crash is still ongoing. While authorities have not confirmed whether alcohol, drugs, or other factors played a role in the incident, these elements are typically scrutinized in cases involving high-speed collisions. Investigators are also examining the vehicle itself, conducting mechanical evaluations to determine if any malfunctions or issues with the car may have contributed to the crash.
The police department has urged anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information about the events leading up to it to come forward. As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to release more details, including the results of toxicology reports and any findings from vehicle inspections.
The Community: Grief Over the Loss of Young Lives
The deaths of Edwin Dubon and Lionel Martinez have sent shockwaves through the local community, where both men were known to friends and family. The two young men, both in their early twenties, were taken from their loved ones in a senseless and avoidable way. Social media tributes have poured in from their friends, who have expressed their sorrow over the sudden loss of their peers. Family members, too, are mourning the devastating impact of this crash, which has forever changed their lives.
Edwin Dubon and Lionel Martinez were remembered for their personalities, their love for life, and their close connections with family and friends. Their deaths have left an emotional void in the hearts of those who knew them. The community has rallied around the families of the victims, offering condolences and support as they cope with the tragic loss.
A Sobering Reminder: The Dangers of Reckless Driving
The crash serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of speeding and reckless driving, particularly in urban environments where road conditions can change suddenly. The tragic deaths of Dubon and Martinez highlight the need for greater awareness around the risks of high-speed driving, especially on busy roads like 13th Street. The consequences of losing control at high speeds can be catastrophic, as seen in this incident.
Authorities have issued public statements calling for increased vigilance and caution when driving, particularly in areas where traffic is dense or where road conditions may be unpredictable. They also stressed the importance of following speed limits and avoiding risky behavior on the road to prevent further tragedies like this one.
Looking Ahead: Justice and Accountability
As the investigation continues, many are hoping for justice and accountability for the victims and their families. If the investigation reveals that speed, impairment, or other negligent factors played a role in the crash, it is likely that charges will be brought against those responsible. While details remain unclear, the hope is that the legal process will help provide closure for the families of the victims.
In the meantime, the community remains focused on supporting the survivors, especially the young girl who is recovering from her injuries. The incident has been a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can be altered or lost due to reckless behavior behind the wheel, and how important it is to take care when traveling on public roads.
Conclusion: The Ripple Effects of a Tragedy
The crash in South Omaha, which has claimed the lives of Edwin Dubon and Lionel Martinez, has left a lasting impact on the community. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to determine the full scope of what led to this tragic incident. While the causes are still under review, the deaths of these two young men underscore the dangers of reckless driving, especially in high-speed situations.
As the community mourns the loss of Dubon and Martinez, they are also left with a sense of urgency regarding road safety and the need for greater awareness on the roads. Families and friends of the victims will continue to grieve, while the investigation moves forward to ensure that justice is served. The incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from irresponsible driving and the importance of always driving with care and caution.
For now, the focus remains on remembering the lives lost and supporting the survivors as they navigate the difficult road ahead.