Sioux Falls, SD (January 3, 2026) – On January 5, 2026, 64-year-old Patricia Archambeau of Mitchell died due to her injuries from a crash with a semi-truck that occurred on January 3 in Minnehaha County.
Incident Details: In the early hours of January 3, 2026, Patricia Archambeau was driving a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse eastbound on I-90 near mile marker 379 when she attempted to pull off on the side of the road. At the same time, Archambeau’s Traverse was struck by a semi-truck that was also traveling eastbound and pulling a trailer.
The truck continued driving east after the crash and has not yet been located. The South Dakota Highway Patrol has released photo images of the semi-truck suspected of hitting the Traverse.
Investigation: The South Dakota Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the hit-and-run semi-truck crash on eastbound I-90 near mile marker 379 in Minnehaha County that claimed the life of Patricia Archambeau. As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities will likely focus on:
- Crash reconstruction: Reviewing vehicle damage, debris patterns, and the location of impact to determine how the collision occurred as Archambeau attempted to pull onto the shoulder.
- Semi-truck identification: Using released images of the suspect truck to identify the vehicle, its trailer configuration, and any distinguishing markings.
- Driver location efforts: Canvassing trucking routes, nearby businesses, and possible surveillance footage to track the truck’s movements after it left the scene.
- Witness and camera review: Collecting witness statements and checking for dash cam or traffic camera footage that may show the collision or the semi-truck’s license plate.
- Evidence of contact: Looking for signs the semi-truck sustained damage or left paint transfer consistent with striking the Chevrolet Traverse.
Together, these steps will help investigators determine fault, locate the fleeing driver, and establish a clear timeline of events leading up to the fatal crash.
Legal Considerations: Crashes involving commercial trucks that leave the scene often raise serious criminal and civil issues. If investigators locate the semi-truck driver and determine that the driver failed to remain at the scene or provide aid, that conduct may result in significant criminal penalties in addition to civil liability.
Even if the driver is not immediately identified, insurance coverage and other investigative findings may still provide a path for the victim’s family to pursue accountability.
For Patricia Archambeau’s loved ones, this loss is devastating. If the investigation confirms the semi-truck driver’s negligence contributed to the collision, a wrongful death claim may help surviving family members seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, and the loss of companionship and support she provided.
My thoughts are with Patricia Archambeau’s family and friends as they grieve this tragic loss.
Source: Dakota News Now