A Shelby County man appeared this (Wednesday) morning in the Douglas County, NE., court and was formally charged in connection with a fatal weekend crash. 28-year old Tony Kenkel, of Earling, was charged with motor vehicle homicide and driving under the influence. The charges were combined, meaning if Kenkel is found guilty, he faces a maximum sentence of 23 years in prison. Bond was set at $100,000. Kenkel’s preliminary hearing is set for November 14th at 9 am.

The crash happened at around 7:30-p.m. Saturday, near Bennington, NE. Authorities said Kenkel was driving a pickup that crossed the median on Highway 36 near Lake Cunningham Road, and struck a car occupied by 21-year old Joseph Daniels, and 21-year old Thomas Griese, both of Council Bluffs.

Daniels died at the scene of the crash. Griese suffered from serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Investigators said Kenkel had been drinking.