Magnet Cove, AR (January 11, 2026) – A tragic accident involving two vehicles on Highway 270 in Hot Spring County claimed the life of a local woman and left four others injured Thursday afternoon.
The collision occurred at approximately 3:26 p.m. on January 8, when a westbound 2010 Cadillac crossed the centerline and collided with an eastbound 2025 Buick. The force of the impact caused the Buick to leave the roadway and overturn. The crash happened along a stretch of Hwy 270 W near Magnet Cove.
Sadly, 43-year-old Jeri Winiecki of Hot Springs, the driver of the Buick, was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency services transported her 18-year-old passenger, Ryan Winiecki, also of Hot Springs, to a nearby hospital for treatment. Three occupants from the Cadillac—48-year-old driver Ricky Smith of Leola, and passengers Sonya Brown, 47, of Carthage, and Gordon Barner, 46, of Pine Bluff—also sustained injuries and were taken to CHI St. Vincent and Baptist Medical for care.
Emergency medical teams and law enforcement officials responded swiftly to the scene, working to assist the injured and secure the area. Authorities reported that the road was wet at the time of the crash and skies were cloudy, which may have contributed to the accident.
The Arkansas State Police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash. More information may be released as the case develops.
Our hearts go out to the Winiecki family and all others affected by this devastating event. We extend our deepest condolences and wish a full recovery to those injured.
Magnet Cove, AR – Collision on Hwy 270 Leaves One Dead, Multiple Injured
Magnet Cove, AR (January 11, 2026) – A tragic accident involving two vehicles on Highway 270 in Hot Spring County claimed the life of a local woman and left four others injured Thursday afternoon.
The collision occurred at approximately 3:26 p.m. on January 8, when a westbound 2010 Cadillac crossed the centerline and collided with an eastbound 2025 Buick. The force of the impact caused the Buick to leave the roadway and overturn. The crash happened along a stretch of Hwy 270 W near Magnet Cove.
Sadly, 43-year-old Jeri Winiecki of Hot Springs, the driver of the Buick, was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency services transported her 18-year-old passenger, Ryan Winiecki, also of Hot Springs, to a nearby hospital for treatment. Three occupants from the Cadillac—48-year-old driver Ricky Smith of Leola, and passengers Sonya Brown, 47, of Carthage, and Gordon Barner, 46, of Pine Bluff—also sustained injuries and were taken to CHI St. Vincent and Baptist Medical for care.
Emergency medical teams and law enforcement officials responded swiftly to the scene, working to assist the injured and secure the area. Authorities reported that the road was wet at the time of the crash and skies were cloudy, which may have contributed to the accident.
The Arkansas State Police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash. More information may be released as the case develops.
Our hearts go out to the Winiecki family and all others affected by this devastating event. We extend our deepest condolences and wish a full recovery to those injured.
