Sherman County, NE — August 20, 2024, Dakota Shelton and Caliope Roque were injured following a single-vehicle truck accident along State Highway 58.
According to authorities, Dakota Shelton, age 29, and Caliope Roque, age 28, were traveling in an 18-wheeler hauling a trailer along S.H. 58 in the vicinity near Rockville when the accident took place.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, the truck failed to safely maintain its lane of travel. It reportedly veered off of the roadway before being overcorrected and overturning onto its right side, blocking both lanes of the highway.
Roque was entrapped in the wreckage, according to reports, and had to be extracted by emergency personnel. Both Roque and Shelton suffered injuries of unknown severity; they were transported to a local medical facility by EMS in order to receive necessary treatment. Additional details pertaining to this incident are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When accidents like this occur, it’s natural for people to assume they stem from simple driver error. However, in my experience, crashes involving large trucks often involve more complex factors that require thorough investigation.
Given the details of this incident, it’s essential to examine the potential causes that led to the 18-wheeler veering off the roadway and overturning. Mechanical failures, driver fatigue, or even external factors like road conditions could have played a role. It’s also important to explore whether the truck was properly maintained and if the driver adhered to safety protocols, including speed and lane management.
Truck maintenance is a critical component of road safety, particularly with large commercial vehicles. Ensuring that all systems, from brakes to steering mechanisms, are in good working order can prevent situations where a driver loses control. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are necessary to avoid accidents that could have been prevented through proper vehicle upkeep.
If the truck involved in this crash was operated by a commercial trucking company, there might be an additional layer of responsibility to consider. The company could be held accountable if it failed to enforce adequate safety measures, training, or vehicle maintenance. It’s important to determine whether any such lapses contributed to the accident.
Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the crash. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain vital evidence, it is crucial to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the crash receive the clarity and closure they deserve.