Investigation Ongoing After Fatal Hit-and-Run Involving Trucker on I-80 Near Rock Springs

A Texas truck driver was killed in a hit-and-run incident along Interstate 80 west of Rock Springs on the afternoon of Friday, April 25, according to the Wyoming Highway Patrol (WHP).

Authorities are continuing their search for the driver of the vehicle involved.

The incident occurred around 4:20 p.m. near milepost 99. According to the WHP, 41-year-old Jeremy Simien had parked his semi-truck on the shoulder and was standing outside on the traffic-facing side of the vehicle when he was struck by a passing semi-truck. The driver of the other vehicle did not stop.

Photos of the suspect vehicle — a white semi believed to have a company logo that includes a red lion — were released by the WHP in a public appeal on social media. The patrol is asking anyone with relevant information to contact dispatch at 307-777-4321.

“We hope that someone has that little piece of information that will help us locate the hit-and-run driver,” said WHP spokesperson Arron Healy, who offered condolences to Simien’s family and encouraged the public to review the released images in case they jog any memories.

WHP is investigating potential contributing factors such as driver inattention, cell phone use, or driver fatigue. Simien is the 30th traffic fatality and third pedestrian death reported on Wyoming highways in 2024.

The Wyoming Department of Transportation and WHP both emphasized the importance of the state’s Move Over Law, which requires motorists to move over or slow down when passing stopped emergency or authorized vehicles on the roadside. Failure to do so can endanger those providing aid or addressing mechanical issues, as was likely the case in this incident.

“This is a reminder that when you see vehicles on the side of the road, you have to give them space,” said Healy. “It’s the law.”

The WHP noted that the public’s help has already driven high engagement on social media, with the Facebook post reaching thousands. Suggestions have included checking cameras at truck stops and fuel stations for leads.

KGAB AM 650 and Wyoming Tribune Eagle contributed to this report.