A tragic crash at a popular Alaska recreation area has resulted in the death of a 10-year-old girl and the arrest of her mother on multiple felony charges, according to Alaska State Troopers.
The fatal incident occurred Thursday evening in the Jim Creek Recreation Area near Palmer when a side-by-side off-road vehicle carrying several children rolled over and landed on its roof. Troopers said emergency responders found the young girl unresponsive with severe head injuries. Despite approximately 30 minutes of life-saving efforts, including CPR, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Three other juveniles who were riding in the vehicle sustained injuries that authorities described as non-life-threatening. They were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment and evaluation.
According to investigators, 32-year-old Hannah Lebel of Wasilla was operating the side-by-side at the time of the crash. Troopers reported that the vehicle was carrying four children, including two of Lebel’s own children and two children belonging to a family friend.
During the investigation, troopers said they detected the odor of alcohol around the vehicle and observed signs that Lebel was impaired. Authorities later discovered six empty beer cans and several cases of alcoholic beverages inside the vehicle. Witnesses told investigators they heard one of the children warning Lebel that she was driving too fast shortly before the crash occurred.
Investigators determined that excessive speed was a contributing factor in the rollover. Troopers also reported that none of the occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the incident.
Lebel was arrested and charged with manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, assault, and driving under the influence. Authorities emphasized that the charges are allegations, and the case will proceed through the court system.
The crash remains under investigation as troopers continue gathering evidence and reviewing the circumstances that led to the deadly rollover.
The incident has renewed concerns about impaired driving and safety precautions in off-road recreational vehicles, particularly when children are passengers.
