Todd Meneely Accident: The Nebraska wrestling and martial arts community is reeling from the tragic loss of Todd Meneely, a celebrated athlete, mentor, and devoted father, who passed away Monday following a serious car accident in central Omaha on Sunday. He was 42.
According to the Omaha Police Department, officers were dispatched shortly after 4:15 p.m. Sunday to a crash near Meadow Drive and 91st Avenue. Preliminary reports indicate that a westbound 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee veered off the roadway and struck a light pole and a tree. First responders performed CPR on Meneely at the scene before he was rushed to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. He succumbed to his injuries the following day. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.
The news of Meneely’s passing has sent shockwaves through Nebraska’s wrestling community and beyond. Nebraska USA Wrestling released a statement remembering him as a legend: “Skutt Catholic and UNO legend Todd Meneely was in a serious car accident recently. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.”
Meneely’s accomplishments on the mat were extraordinary. A graduate of V.J. and Angela Skutt Catholic High School and the University of Nebraska at Omaha, he was a three-time NCAA Division II national champion for Nebraska–Omaha. His career record of 85–5, induction into the Division II Hall of Fame, and recognition as the 2009 NCAA Division II Wrestler of the Year cemented his status as one of the state’s most accomplished athletes.
Yet those who knew him say Todd’s impact went far beyond his accolades. Friends, teammates, and coaches described him as a fierce competitor with a generous heart, a man who exemplified discipline, courage, and loyalty. Many called him a “Gladiator” and a “Maverick,” reflecting both his fearless style in competition and the inspirational role he played in the UNO wrestling program.
Tributes have poured in from across the wrestling community. Former teammates remembered him as a mentor who pushed them to excel while always encouraging kindness and integrity. Colleagues spoke of a devoted father and loyal friend whose support and guidance extended far beyond the wrestling mat. One former teammate wrote, “Todd didn’t just teach wrestling—he taught life. He made everyone around him better.”
Todd Meneely, born July 25, 1983, leaves behind a legacy that extends well beyond championships and titles. He is remembered as a man of character, dedication, and generosity, whose influence on Nebraska wrestling and the countless lives he touched will never be forgotten.
