Dubuque, Iowa — Kaylynn Mae Knight, 27, of Maquoketa, was sentenced Monday, June 29, 2026, in Dubuque County District Court to 10 years in prison for vehicular homicide. She was also ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution to the victim’s family. 

The crash occurred on August 11, 2025, on Highway 61. Semi-truck driver Jayseth Paul, 26, had pulled onto the shoulder to secure his cargo when Knight’s SUV struck him while traveling southbound at about 73 mph. Investigators found she did not brake and was using her cell phone moments before impact, despite having roughly 11 seconds to react. 

Knight was convicted in May 2026 of Homicide by Vehicle – Reckless Driving following a bench trial. The court determined her distracted and reckless driving unintentionally caused Paul’s death. 

This case highlights the serious consequences of distracted driving on Iowa highways. Paul’s family receives restitution as part of the sentence, though it cannot replace their loss. Knight’s prison term reflects the preventable nature of the tragedy.