Serine
Following a tragic crash that claimed the life of 16-year-old Cody Lamping, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), in collaboration with the City of Basehor, announced immediate plans to reduce the speed limit along a hazardous stretch of U.S. Highways 24 and 40.
Details of the Tragic Crash
The fatal incident occurred at the intersection of 155th Street and U.S. 24/40 Tuesday night. According to Kansas Highway Patrol, Lamping ran a red light, and his vehicle was struck by a Chevy pickup traveling at highway speed.
The teenager later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The 68-year-old driver of the pickup sustained minor injuries and was also hospitalized.
Intersection Already Deemed Dangerous
A KDOT safety study conducted in 2023 had already flagged this area as especially dangerous for young drivers. Between 2018 and 2022, 31 accidents occurred at this specific intersection, with over half involving high school-aged drivers.
Local Response and Emotional Reactions
The Basehor community is devastated. At Perky’s Café, a local eatery frequented by Lamping, the mood was somber.
“It wasn’t even a week ago that Cody came in with his girlfriend for a cheeseburger,” said Tracy Smith, the café’s owner. “We just don’t want to keep losing our kids.”
State Representative Tim Johnson (R-Basehor) also visited Perky’s and was visibly shaken after learning the identity of the victim. He emphasized the long-standing need for speed limit changes.
“It’s too fast. People treat 65 like 70,” Johnson stated. “We’ve been asking for 50 mph, and the state might land at 55, but something must be done.”
KDOT’s New Safety Plan
Shortly after community conversations, KDOT confirmed a pilot program will launch later this summer to:
- Reduce the speed limit to 55 mph
- Upgrade traffic signals
- Improve signage through the city
These changes will specifically target the stretch of U.S. 24/40 near 155th Street, where Cody lost his life.
Smith noted that reducing speeds can make a big difference:
“A person hit at 35 mph versus 65 or 70 has a much higher chance of surviving.”
The tragic loss of Cody Lamping has reignited concerns about traffic safety along Basehor’s busiest roads. With more than half of crashes involving teen drivers, the KDOT speed reduction initiative is a step toward preventing future tragedies.
The Basehor community, while grieving, hopes these upcoming changes will ensure greater safety for local youth and drivers alike.