KIMBALL - A burned military vehicle was removed from the shoulder of Highway 71 near Kimball Friday and the road was reopened for the first time since Monday.

According to the 90th Missile Wing at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, airmen removed the U.S. Air Force Humvee on a transport vehicle. SSgt Cody Dowell with the 90th MW Public Affairs NCOIC Media Operations said the area has been determined safe and clear.

Airmen convoyed the vehicle back the F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne. Drivers on the westbound lanes of Interstate 80 between Kimball and Cheyenne experienced minor delays during the transport.  

All lanes of Hwy 71 between Harrisburg and Kimball, and the westbound lane of Hwy 88 from Bridgeport to the Highway 71 junction, had been closed since Monday, because of the military Humvee catching fire.

All occupants in the vehicle were able to escape the flames. There were no injuries. 

Airmen were unable to unload ammunition, including grenades, before the vehicle became engulfed in flames. Military personnel detonated the live ammunition after strong winds delayed the operation.

The Kimball County Sheriff's office, Kimball Volunteer Fire Department, Nebraska State Patrol and the Nebraska Department of Transportation responded to the scene. 

The incident remains under investigation.

NEBRASKA ROAD CONDITIONS