Tragedy in Lincoln: Jere Charginghawk Identified as Victim in Fatal Parking Lot Accident

LINCOLN, NE – June 16, 2025 — A quiet parking lot in northwest Lincoln became the site of an unthinkable tragedy over the weekend, as Lincoln Police Department (LPD) officials have confirmed the identity of the victim in a fatal vehicle accident. The deceased has been identified as 44-year-old Jere Charginghawk, a resident of Lincoln, whose life was cut short in a heartbreaking incident near N. 27th and Theresa streets.

The accident occurred in the northwest corner of a business’s parking lot, a location typically bustling with shoppers and commuters. According to initial findings from the accident report, Charginghawk was struck by a vehicle as it navigated through the lot. The driver, who remains unnamed, told police that he was pulling out of a parking space and slowly turning right to head southbound when he suddenly felt the vehicle hit something. Unaware at first of what had occurred, the driver exited his vehicle only to discover he had run over a person—Jere Charginghawk—who, according to the driver, appeared to have been lying in the lot at the time of impact.

Emergency services responded promptly to the scene, but despite efforts, Charginghawk was pronounced dead at the location due to the extent of his injuries. The somber discovery and the circumstances surrounding it have left both the family and the local community in shock and grief.

The Lincoln Police Department has stated that alcohol or drugs are not believed to be contributing factors in the crash. The driver involved has been cooperative with investigators and is not currently facing any charges. However, LPD has emphasized that the case remains under active investigation. Any decisions regarding potential citations or criminal charges will be made following a thorough review of all evidence and eyewitness accounts.

Jere Charginghawk is remembered by loved ones as a kind-hearted individual who faced his share of challenges in life, yet remained compassionate and resilient. His untimely death has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, and community members are rallying in support of his family during this painful time.

Lincoln residents are expressing renewed concern over pedestrian safety in parking lots, which can often become dangerous zones due to low visibility, high traffic, and distractions. Authorities are urging both drivers and pedestrians to exercise increased awareness in such areas to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

As the investigation continues, LPD asks anyone who may have witnessed the accident or who might have relevant surveillance footage from nearby businesses to come forward. Every piece of information may help in determining exactly what transpired and ensuring appropriate accountability.

For now, the city mourns the loss of Jere Charginghawk, whose life ended in a place where no one should meet such a fate—a community parking lot on an otherwise ordinary day.