Fremont County Sheriff’s Department said today (Friday), deputies discovered a one-vehicle accident near the intersection of 220^th St and 230^th Avenue. A deputy with the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office observed a 2004 Mazda RX8 partially submerged in the drainage ditch located east of the intersection of 220^th Street and 230^th Ave.

An investigation determined the driver of the vehicle, 18-year old Dustin Rutledge, of Sidney, was westbound on 220^th Street when he lost control of his car, which entered the north ditch.  The vehicle traveled in the ditch along the creek bed, struck a culvert and came to rest in the drainage ditch. The car was a total loss. Rutledge was not injured, and left the scene prior to law enforcement arrival.

Alcohol is not believed to be a factor, seatbelts were in use, and authorities say charges are pending.