Zachary Cloutier Obituary, Death: Man identified in fatal head-on crash with semi north of Lincoln

Zachary Cloutier Obituary, Death – A tragic crash in Lancaster County on Tuesday morning resulted in the death of a 20-year-old man, identified as Zachary Cloutier from Grand Island. According to Chief Deputy Ben Houchin of the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred at approximately 2:45 a.m. on Highway 79, just north of Lincoln. Cloutier was driving his vehicle when, for reasons that are still under investigation, he crossed into the opposite lane, resulting in a head-on collision with a semi-truck.

Cloutier, who was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash, was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency responders quickly arrived, but there was nothing they could do to save him due to the severity of the crash. The semi-truck driver was unharmed in the incident.

Following the crash, investigators began gathering evidence and conducting a thorough investigation. Chief Deputy Houchin revealed that Cloutier had been under the influence of synthetic marijuana at the time of the crash. Several vape pens containing the substance were found inside Cloutier’s vehicle, further suggesting that he had been using synthetic marijuana prior to the crash.

Despite the tragic circumstances, Houchin stated that no charges would be filed in relation to the crash. This decision was likely due to the fact that the crash appeared to be the result of Cloutier’s actions while under the influence, and there was no indication of negligence or foul play on the part of other drivers involved. However, an autopsy has been ordered to confirm the exact cause of death and further investigate the role synthetic marijuana may have played in the crash.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate the details of the crash. While it is still unclear why Cloutier swerved into the opposite lane, it is likely that his impairment played a significant role in the deadly accident. The discovery of vape pens inside the vehicle supports the theory that synthetic marijuana was a contributing factor to the crash.

The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of impaired driving, particularly when it involves substances like synthetic marijuana, which can have unpredictable and hazardous effects on a person’s ability to operate a vehicle. Authorities continue to urge drivers to remain vigilant and avoid driving under the influence of any substance, as it can lead to tragic consequences.

In the wake of the crash, Cloutier’s family and friends are mourning the loss of a young life, while the community is grappling with the shock of yet another fatal traffic accident. Cloutier’s death is the latest in a string of fatal crashes across the region, highlighting the ongoing need for awareness and safety measures on the roads.

While no charges will be filed in connection with this crash, the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The investigation will likely provide further insights into how synthetic marijuana may have impacted Cloutier’s ability to drive safely and whether there were any other contributing factors.

As the community processes the tragedy, the Sheriff’s Office is reminding drivers of the importance of responsible driving and staying sober behind the wheel. The tragic loss of Zachary Cloutier serves as a heartbreaking reminder that even small decisions, like using an impairing substance before getting behind the wheel, can have life-altering and devastating consequences.