Fort Smith, AR (February 13, 2026) – A side-by-side crash left one woman dead and the driver injured along Hwy 96 near Dalmut Rd in Sebastian County, according to the Arkansas State Police.
Key Details
- Location: Hwy 96 near Dalmut Rd, Sebastian County
- Reported: February 11 at approximately 2:00 a.m.
- Type: Side-by-side rollover crash
- Vehicle: Polaris utility vehicle
- Fatality: 41-year-old Crystal Bieler of Fort Smith
- Injuries: Driver transported to a nearby hospital
What We Know So Far
- Authorities said the Polaris was traveling westbound on Hwy 96.
- While exiting a right curve, the driver reportedly lost control, struck a ditch, and the vehicle rolled over.
- The crash occurred near the intersection of Hwy 96 and Dalmut Rd.
- Weather conditions were reported as clear, and the roadway was dry at the time.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Additional factors that may have contributed to the loss of control.
- The current condition of the injured driver.
- Whether any further investigation findings will be released.
Local Context
The stretch of Hwy 96 near Dalmut Rd runs through a rural portion of Sebastian County outside Fort Smith, where curves and limited lighting can affect visibility during overnight hours. This area primarily carries local and regional traffic, and drivers navigating bends along the highway must adjust speed accordingly. Crashes involving utility vehicles such as side-by-sides can present additional challenges, particularly when traveling on paved highways not typically designed for off-road vehicles. When serious crashes occur along Hwy 96, emergency responders from surrounding communities coordinate efforts to assist those involved and secure the scene.
What to Do Next
- If you were involved in a rollover or off-road vehicle crash, move to a safe location if possible and call 911 immediately for medical assistance.
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with first responders as they assess injuries and document what happened.
- If it is safe to do so, take photos of the vehicle, roadway conditions, and the surrounding area.
- Keep all medical records and related paperwork organized following the incident.
FAQ
Q: What information is typically included in a fatal crash report?
A: A fatal crash report generally includes the date, time, location, vehicles involved, roadway and weather conditions, and a summary of how the crash occurred based on the initial investigation.
Q: Why can rollover crashes be especially dangerous?
A: Rollover crashes can cause serious injuries because occupants may be exposed to multiple impacts as the vehicle overturns, increasing the risk of severe trauma.
Q: Can an investigation continue after the scene is cleared?
A: Yes. Even after the roadway is reopened, authorities may continue reviewing evidence and reports before finalizing their findings.
