Omaha Fire Response and Election Highlights for Monday

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – The Omaha Fire Department responded to a fire early Monday morning near 134th St. and Hillsborough Dr. The blaze broke out shortly after 1 a.m., prompting firefighters to receive a call about smoke coming from the house.

Fire officials reported that crews managed to extinguish the fire within approximately 40 minutes. Fortunately, no injuries occurred as no occupants were inside at the time. An investigation into the fire’s cause is expected to start soon.

In related news, Monday marks the last day for early in-person voting at the Douglas County Election Commission, located at 12220 W Center Rd. Polls will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those who received mail-in ballots are reminded that ballots must be dropped in a collection box by 8 p.m. Tuesday to be counted. Reports estimate around 20,000 early ballots have been cast.

On Election Day, voting will take place from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.

In a concerning development from central Nebraska, Jeremy and Bailey Koch, known advocates for mental health and suicide prevention, were involved in a tragic incident over the weekend. Authorities believe Jeremy may have stabbed Bailey and their two teenage sons, Hudson and Asher, at their rural Dawson County home. The Nebraska State Patrol is continuing its investigation.

As a reminder, the suicide and crisis lifeline is available at 988 for anyone in need of support.

Additionally, starting tonight, the 144th St. bridge over Dodge will be closed nightly from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. The closure is part of a larger construction project affecting Dodge between 132nd and 156th.

City officials also announced a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new campus at Offutt Air Force Base today. The 55th Wing’s Security Forces Squadron will host the event, showcasing facilities dedicated to base defense and logistical support as the base continues recovery from past flooding.

Gas prices in Omaha have fallen by 8.1 cents in the last week, now averaging $2.81 per gallon. According to GasBuddy, prices in Omaha are down 20.9 cents since last month and 47.7 cents from a year ago.