Fatal Collision on Highway 70 East: One Dead, Gerald and Mary Lewis Injured

On May 12, 2025, at approximately 5:05 PM, a tragic accident occurred on Highway 70 East in Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas. A 2006 Ford Focus, driven by 36-year-old Gabriel Nicole Washington of Hot Springs, was traveling westbound when it hydroplaned due to rainy conditions, crossed over the continuous left turning lane, and entered the eastbound traffic lanes. There, it collided head-on with a 2016 Honda Civic driven by 56-year-old Gerald Eugene Lewis of White Hall, who had his wife, 55-year-old Mary Lee Lewis, as a passenger.

As a result of the collision, Ms. Washington was fatally injured, and her body was taken to the Garland County Coroner’s Office. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis sustained injuries and were transported to CHI St. Vincent for medical treatment.