Bayard Near Miss

(BAYARD, Neb.) — On October 21, 2025, Morrill County Deputies were dispatched to a near head on collision on Highway 26 near Road 102. Deputies made contact with the reporting party on scene who stated the other vehicle crossed over into their lane and nearly caused a collision.

Deputies made contact with the second party involved. Deputies immediately suspected the driver to be under the influence. Deputies observed controlled substance and drug paraphernalia in plain view on the center console of the vehicle.

The driver was detained and a search of the vehicle was conducted. The search of the passenger compartment of the vehicle yielded fentanyl, THC wax, multiple open containers of alcohol, and various drug paraphernalia.

The driver identified as Ryan D Martinez was arrested and transported to the Morrill County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies conducted a subsequent investigation for driving under the influence and determined Martinez was operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol of more than double the legal limit.

Martinez is being held on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, and Open Alcohol Container.

All persons arrested are presumed innocent until found guilty in a court of law.