Tow Truck Driver Sentenced for Fatal Lincoln Crash
Cesar Leos received a 90-day jail sentence following a November 2025 collision that killed Kristine Hess.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Accidents
A Lincoln court has sentenced Cesar Leos to 90 days in jail after he was convicted of motor vehicle homicide. The charges stem from a November 2025 collision where Leos, while operating a Midwest Towing vehicle, struck and killed Kristine Hess.
Why it matters
The sentencing concludes a legal process following the death of Hess, a prominent community leader who served as the director of operations at Civic Nebraska. The incident highlights the severe consequences of traffic fatalities in the city.
Cesar Leos was ordered to serve 90 days in jail and 24 months of probation, alongside 200 hours of community service and a $1,000 fine. This follows his conviction for motor vehicle homicide related to the crash that killed Kristine Hess.
The players
Cesar Leos
He is a 33-year-old tow truck driver who was convicted of motor vehicle homicide.
Kristine Hess
She was a 61-year-old resident of Omaha who served as the director of operations at Civic Nebraska.
Midwest Towing
This is the company that employed the driver involved in the fatal collision.
Civic Nebraska
This is a non-profit organization focused on strengthening civic engagement where the victim was employed.
The details
The fatal collision occurred when Leos turned left at the intersection of St. Paul Avenue and North 48th Street while driving for Midwest Towing. First responders arrived at the scene at 10:44 a.m. on the morning of the incident.
Timeline
The collision occurred on November 15, 2025.
First responders reached the scene at 10:44 a.m. on November 15, 2025.
Kristine Hess began her role at Civic Nebraska on September 29, 2026.
Cesar Leos received his sentence on September 25, 2026.
Legal Context
The sentence reflects the local judicial system's rigid application of penal codes regarding traffic-related deaths. It follows a recent pattern of criminal prosecution for fatal incidents that occur during professional driving operations in Lincoln.
The sentencing serves as a reminder to drivers in the Lincoln area regarding the legal liabilities associated with left-hand turns at busy intersections like St. Paul Avenue and North 48th Street. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant of pedestrian activity to prevent similar fatal outcomes.
The takeaway
This case emphasizes that professional drivers face significant criminal liability when traffic laws result in fatalities. Drivers should prioritize intersection safety to avoid life-altering legal and personal consequences.
Further reading
For more information on local road safety and incidents, see the Lincoln Accidents section.
