Denise Burland, Jo Lynn Leishman Obituary, Death; Lake County Sheriff IDs Four Killed in Highway 93 Crash
Denise Burland, Jo Lynn Leishman Obituary, Death – Authorities in Lake County have officially released the names of the four people who tragically lost their lives in a crash that occurred Wednesday evening on U.S. Highway 93. Sheriff and Coroner Don Bell confirmed the victims, all residents of nearby Montana communities, were killed in the fatal accident.
The individuals who died have been identified as 53-year-old Denise Burland of Polson, 53-year-old Jo Lynn Leishman of Pablo, 52-year-old Lanelle Fisher of Ronan, and 42-year-old Kimberly R. Hewankorn of Polson. Each of the women was well known within their respective communities, and news of their deaths has sent shockwaves across Lake County and beyond.
Although their identities have now been made public, officials have not yet released further details about how the deadly crash unfolded. Authorities confirmed that the wreck happened along Highway 93, a heavily traveled roadway that has seen numerous serious accidents over the years. However, information such as the number of vehicles involved, contributing factors like speed or weather, or whether other people were injured, has not been disclosed at this stage. The Montana Highway Patrol is expected to continue its investigation, working to determine what exactly caused the fatal incident.
The loss of four lives in a single crash is deeply felt across the area, with many community members expressing sorrow and support for the families left behind. Highway 93 runs through several close-knit towns in Lake County, meaning the impact of this tragedy reaches across multiple communities. Residents of Polson, Pablo, and Ronan, where the victims lived, are rallying around the families and loved ones during this time of grief.
Local officials have urged patience as investigators complete their work, emphasizing that it may take time before all the circumstances are fully understood. Meanwhile, grief counselors and local support networks are expected to play an important role in helping the affected communities cope with the sudden and devastating losses.
Highway 93 has long been regarded as a dangerous stretch of road due to its heavy traffic and frequent collisions. Safety concerns have been raised by community members and state officials in the past, with discussions often focusing on the need for continued improvements to reduce the number of accidents. This most recent tragedy is likely to renew calls for heightened awareness, caution, and possibly further safety measures.
For now, the focus remains on remembering and honoring the lives of the four women who died. Each leaves behind family, friends, and a community grieving their absence. Sheriff Don Bell extended his condolences on behalf of the county, noting the heartbreak that comes with releasing such news.
As the investigation continues, officials are expected to provide updates once more information becomes available. In the meantime, residents are being asked to keep the victims’ families in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate the painful days ahead.
This devastating crash serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the ongoing dangers present on Montana’s highways.
News Source: ktvq
