The Merrick County Sheriff's Office is investigating two crashes that happened within hours of each other believing to involve alcohol.

The first happened at around 9:25 p.m. Wednesday just northeast of Chapman.

A car was heading north on 8th Road and failed to stop at a stop sign before stopping in the middle of Highway 30.

Authorities say a semi was heading west on the highway when it hit the rear of the car.

The driver of the car was arrested for driving under the influence.

The second crash happened just over an hour later at 10:40 p.m. a few miles south of Worms.

Authorities say a motorcycle was heading south when it left the roadway and rolled into a ditch.

The driver suffered severe injuries and was taken to CHI St. Francis in Grand Island.

Both crashes are still under investigation, and alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor in both.