Fatal Crash in Hickory Claims Life of Jeana Lane, Injures Three Juveniles; Impaired Driver Charged

HICKORY, N.C. (July 5, 2025) — A late-night crash at one of Hickory’s busiest intersections has claimed the life of a young woman and left three juveniles injured. The driver of the other vehicle, who was reportedly impaired, now faces multiple felony charges.

According to the Hickory Police Department, the collision occurred at approximately 11:39 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, at the intersection of Highway 321 and Clement Boulevard NW.

Investigators say Scott Alan Lail, 55, of Hickory, was driving a Jeep Wrangler southbound on Highway 321 when he entered the intersection on a red light and struck a Chevrolet Trax that was traveling west on Clement Boulevard.

The Chevrolet was driven by Jeana Lane, a 26-year-old woman from Morganton, North Carolina. Tragically, Lane was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. She had three juveniles in the car with her, all of whom suffered injuries. Emergency crews transported all three to local hospitals. As of Friday morning, two of the children remain hospitalized, while one has been released.

Driver Charged in Fatal Collision

Police determined that Scott Alan Lail was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He was taken into custody on-site and has since been formally charged with:

• Driving While Impaired (DWI)

• Felony Death by Vehicle

• Two Counts of Felony Serious Injury by Vehicle

Lail is being held in the Catawba County Detention Facility, and court proceedings are expected to begin in the coming days. The Hickory Police Department confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing.

Victim Remembered

Friends and family have begun mourning the loss of Jeana Lane, describing her as a vibrant, loving young woman who cared deeply for her family. Known for her kindness and warm heart, Lane had roots in the Morganton community and was reportedly a devoted mother and family member.

“Jeana was full of light and love,” one friend wrote on social media. “She was taken from us far too soon, and our hearts are broken.”

A makeshift memorial with candles and flowers has formed near the crash site. Supporters have also begun organizing efforts to raise funds for funeral expenses and medical costs for the children involved. Further details about these efforts are expected to be shared with the public soon.

Public Outcry and Call for Safety

The fatal crash has reignited concerns among Hickory residents about traffic enforcement and intersection safety. Some residents report that the intersection at Highway 321 and Clement Boulevard has been the site of multiple serious crashes in recent years. Several have called for changes, such as improved lighting, signage, and speed control in the area.

“This could’ve been anyone’s child or sibling,” said one local resident. “People need to stop drinking and driving, and the city needs to take another look at this intersection.”

Police Seeking Information

As the investigation continues, police are asking for the public’s help. Anyone who witnessed the crash or may have dashcam footage from the area around 11:30 p.m. Thursday night is urged to contact the Hickory Police Department at (828) 328-5551.

A Preventable Loss

The death of Jeana Lane is a tragic reminder of the dangers of impaired driving. Her family now faces the unbearable task of laying her to rest while caring for three injured children and grieving an irreplaceable loss.

As the community rallies around the victims, calls for justice — and for change — grow louder.