Patrick Holley Obituary Death News: Heartbreaking Accident Takes Lives of Firth Pair in Lancaster County

 LANCASTER COUNTY, NE — A peaceful Wednesday afternoon turned grim when a collision involving two vehicles resulted in the deaths of a cherished couple from Firth along Highway 77. This tragic incident took place at approximately 4:07 p.m. on November 12, 2025, close to Firth Road, about two miles north of Cortland, Nebraska.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office (LSO) reported that the crash involved a 2007 Buick Lucerne being operated by 63-year-old Patrick Holley, with his 63-year-old wife, Penny Holley, in the passenger seat. Investigators suspect that the vehicle of the Holleys was heading west on Firth Road when it entered the intersection with Highway 77, resulting in a collision with a northbound 1993 Ford F-250 pickup truck driven by 43-year-old Joseph Grant from Lincoln.

The intensity of the collision forced the Holleys’ vehicle into an adjacent ditch, while the pickup came to a stop in the median of the highway. Emergency units from various agencies—including Hallam Fire & Rescue, Firth Fire & Rescue, Cortland Fire & Rescue, Lincoln Fire & Rescue, and StarCare Air Ambulance—quickly arrived at the location. Despite their attempts to save him, Patrick Holley was declared dead at the site, and Penny Holley succumbed to her injuries later at the hospital.

Joseph Grant was taken to a nearby hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Officials confirmed that there were no other individuals or vehicles involved in the incident.

Deputies obstructed the intersection for several hours to allow for a thorough investigation of the scene. Initial observations indicate that alcohol and drugs did not play a role in the accident, although authorities are still trying to ascertain if seat belts were being used at the moment of the incident.

Captain John A. Vik of the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office expressed heartfelt sympathy for the Holley family, labeling the incident as “a heartbreaking loss for the Firth community.” He remarked, “Patrick and Penny had been long-time residents, and their absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew them.”

The Sheriff’s Office also conveyed appreciation to all first responders and agencies involved, along with local residents for their understanding during the investigative process.

As the community grieves, friends and neighbors recall Patrick and Penny as compassionate, generous individuals who treasured their small-town lifestyle and each other. Their unexpected loss highlights the harsh reality of how swiftly misfortune can occur, even on roads that are well-known.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the accident, scrutinizing evidence and vehicle information to uncover the reasons behind the crash.