MANILA, Ark. — The state of Arkansas is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Mackenzie Marie Risner, of Manila, and Jan Sebastian Rabie, who were killed in a devastating multi-vehicle crash on State Highway 181 on the afternoon of October 3, 2025.
According to the Arkansas State Police (ASP), the crash occurred around 3:57 p.m. after heavy smoke from a nearby burning field, carried by strong winds, drifted across the roadway and reduced visibility to nearly zero. Within moments, the thick haze triggered a six-vehicle pile-up that claimed two lives and injured two others.
The collision began when a 2018 GMC Terrain, driven by Mackenzie Risner, struck a 2012 Kenworth truck, sending her vehicle off the roadway and into a ditch. Seconds later, a 2005 Kenworth driven by Jan Sebastian Rabie collided with the same truck, sparking a fire on impact. The fiery crash pushed the 2012 Kenworth into a 2022 Ford F-250, creating a chain reaction that left the highway littered with wreckage.
Two additional vehicles became involved when Olivia Palmer of Keiser was rear-ended, causing both her vehicle and the striking vehicle to veer off the road. Palmer and her passenger, Keri Palmer, sustained injuries but survived and are expected to recover.
Officials confirmed that the roadway was dry and the weather clear, citing the drifting smoke as the primary factor behind the catastrophic accident. Investigators noted that a farmer was conducting a controlled burn near the highway at the time, inadvertently producing the dense smoke that obscured drivers’ visibility.
The sudden loss of Mackenzie Risner and Jan Sebastian Rabie has left their families and communities shattered. Mackenzie, remembered for her bright spirit and deep love for family and friends, was a cherished presence whose warmth touched countless lives. Jan Sebastian, described as hardworking, generous, and kind, leaves behind a legacy of compassion and dedication that will not be forgotten.
In the wake of the tragedy, neighbors and loved ones have come together to share condolences and memories, finding strength in unity as they mourn. Community members say the incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can be altered by unforeseen dangers on the road.
As ASP continues its investigation, officials are urging caution around agricultural burns and other visibility hazards to prevent future tragedies.
Though gone too soon, Mackenzie Marie Risner and Jan Sebastian Rabie will be remembered for the love, laughter, and light they brought into the lives of those around them. Their memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.