Civic Nebraska director identified as pedestrian killed in northeast Lincoln crash

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Lincoln Police Department has identified the woman fatally struck by a vehicle in northeast Lincoln as 61-year-old Kristine Hess of Omaha.

Hess was the director of operations at Civic Nebraska — a nonprofit based in Lincoln — and oversaw internal operations, supported staff across programs and helped strengthen the systems that made their mission possible.

Just before 10:45 a.m. Saturday, LPD said Hess was hit by a flatbed tow truck at the intersection of North 48th Street and St. Paul Avenue.

According to Civic Nebraska, she was walking to one of its events and was struck just outside the venue.

When first responders arrived on the scene, LPD said a passerby was rendering aid to Hess. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to LPD.

“Kris was warm, thoughtful, and deeply committed to work that strengthens community and lifts up every voice,” Civic Nebraska said in a statement. “She was the kind of colleague who made others feel supported and seen. Losing her in this sudden and senseless way is an immeasurable tragedy, and our entire organization is grieving.”

LPD said the tow truck driver is cooperating with the investigation.

There is no word from authorities on whether the driver will be cited in the crash.

Anyone with information, including video or audio recordings, is asked to call LPD at 402-441-6000 or Crime Stoppers at 402-475-3600.