CANYON COUNTY, Idaho – A 37-year-old Nampa man is facing multiple felony charges after a deadly wrong-way crash on Interstate 84 that left a young woman dead earlier this month. Authorities say the crash occurred the evening of February 6 and involved several vehicles before ending in a fatal head-on collision.
According to investigators, Kaleb Lancaster has been booked into the Canyon County Jail and is facing six charges, including felony vehicular manslaughter and aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The charges stem from a series of collisions that unfolded just before 8:00 p.m. on I-84.
Crash Timeline on Interstate 84
Idaho State Police reported that Lancaster was driving a truck eastbound on Interstate 84 when he initially struck another vehicle. After the first collision, authorities say he continued driving and entered the interstate in the wrong direction, heading into oncoming traffic.
Troopers said Lancaster sideswiped a second vehicle before crashing head-on into a small passenger car. The violent impact resulted in the death of the car’s passenger, identified as Gabriela Gonzalez of Homedale.
Emergency crews responded to the scene, but Gonzalez was pronounced dead following the crash. Officials have not released additional details about the condition of other individuals involved.
Charges Filed Against the Driver
Lancaster is now facing serious legal consequences in connection with the incident. Among the charges filed are:
- Felony vehicular manslaughter
- Aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Additional related felony and misdemeanor charges tied to the crash
Authorities allege that impairment played a significant role in the deadly chain of events. Aggravated DUI charges typically apply when intoxicated driving results in serious injury or death.
Court Appearance and Next Steps
Lancaster appeared before a judge in Canyon County Court earlier this week for his arraignment. During the hearing, the court formally presented the charges against him and addressed initial procedural matters.
The judge scheduled a preliminary hearing for February 19. At that hearing, prosecutors will be required to present evidence demonstrating probable cause to move the case forward to trial. If convicted on the felony charges, Lancaster could face significant prison time under Idaho law.
Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators are reviewing evidence, including crash reconstruction findings and toxicology results, to determine the full scope of events leading up to the wrong-way collision.
Wrong-way crashes are often among the most severe types of roadway accidents due to the high speeds and direct impact involved. Authorities frequently emphasize the dangers of impaired driving and the devastating consequences it can bring to victims, families, and communities.
The death of Gabriela Gonzalez has left the Homedale community mourning, as family and friends remember her life while legal proceedings against the accused driver move forward.
