The Liberal Police Department experienced heavier-than-usual motor vehicle accident activity over the past week due to increases in holiday travel, with 16 accidents investigated. Officers responded to and investigated 1 injury accident, 6 non-injury accidents, 1 hit-and-run accident, 1 DUI accident and 7 private property accidents.
On December 28th, 2020, at approximately 4:51PM, Liberal Police officers were dispatched to the intersection of West 2nd Street and North Lincoln Avenue for reports of a motor vehicle accident. An investigation determined that a 2012 Ford F-150 driven by Maria Meraz, 57, had struck a 2007 Honda Odyssey driven by a 17-year old Liberal resident. An investigation found that the Honda failed to yield to the Ford in the intersection, thus causing the accident. Both occupants declined needing medical attention on scene, and the Odyssey was towed from the scene due to disabling damage by T&B Towing. Both drivers were issued citations as a result of the collision.
Officer Efrain Chavez was the primary investigator. This was LPDs 667th motor vehicle accident of the year.
An injury motor vehicle accident occurred on December 26th, 2020, at approximately 3:30PM. Liberal Police officers were dispatched to the intersection of West 1st Street and North Webster Avenue for reports of a motor vehicle accident. An investigation found that a 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck driven by a 70-year old Liberal resident was struck by a 2010 Lincoln MKS driven by a 25-year old Liberal resident. The investigation determined the Dodge Ram struck the Lincoln after it had stopped at a yield sign and proceeded through, however could not stop in time and struck the oncoming Lincoln. One of the drivers was transported to a local hospital for medical evaluations. The driver of the Ford was cited for failing to yield.
Officer Nathan Brennon was the primary investigator.
