North Platte, NE (March 12, 2026) – A woman has been arrested following a deadly two-vehicle crash on Thursday morning on Interstate 80 west of North Platte, according to authorities.
Officials with the Nebraska State Patrol said the collision occurred at approximately 10:20 a.m. in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 80 in Lincoln County, Nebraska, about three miles west of North Platte, Nebraska.
Investigators reported that a Toyota Sienna driven by Jacqueline Hoggatt, 49, of Lancaster, California, was traveling eastbound on the interstate when it struck the rear of a Jeep Wrangler that was also heading east.
Authorities said the impact caused the Jeep to roll into a ditch on the south side of the highway. The driver of the Jeep died at the scene. Following the collision, the Toyota Sienna crossed the highway median, traveled across the westbound lanes of Interstate 80, and came to rest in a ditch on the north side of the roadway.
Hoggatt was transported to Great Plains Health for treatment before being released. Afterward, troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol arrested Hoggatt on suspicion of motor vehicle homicide, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Officials said additional charges may be pending.
She has since been booked into the Lincoln County Jail. Authorities said the name of the deceased driver is being withheld until family members can be notified.
The crash remains under investigation as troopers conduct a full reconstruction of the incident.
We extend our condolences to the family of the person who lost their life in this tragic crash.
Rear-End Collisions on Highways Can Lead to Serious Outcomes
Rear-end crashes on high-speed roadways like Interstate 80 can result in severe consequences, especially when vehicles lose control after the initial impact.
When one vehicle strikes another from behind at highway speeds, the force of the collision can cause vehicles to spin, roll over, or leave the roadway. In some cases, vehicles may cross medians and enter opposing traffic lanes.
Incidents occurring along major travel corridors in areas such as Lincoln County, Nebraska, often require extensive investigation, including crash reconstruction and analysis of roadway evidence.
Authorities typically examine vehicle damage, witness statements, and other factors to determine exactly how the collision occurred.
