Hailey
On Thursday evening, a reckless street racing incident in downtown Emporia ended in a violent multi-vehicle crash that sent two people to the hospital.
The shocking event happened in broad daylight and has sparked widespread concern among residents about the dangers of illegal street racing.
The collision involved at least three vehicles, with one suspect driver arrested and another still at large. The Emporia Police Department (EPD) has launched a full investigation, reviewing footage and speaking with witnesses to piece together the events that led to the crash.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the third vehicle involved—which fled the scene before emergency crews arrived—to contact Lyon County Emergency Communications at 620-343-4225.
Street Racing Turns Dangerous in Emporia
According to EPD, the crash happened just before 5:00 PM in the 300 block of East Sixth Avenue, a busy road in Emporia, Kansas. Witnesses say two vehicles were racing at high speed, weaving in and out of traffic and ignoring traffic safety rules.
This type of reckless driving is extremely dangerous, putting the lives of not only the drivers at risk but also pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists.
One resident told local reporters that the sound of engines revving echoed down the street before the loud crash. Another said it was only “a matter of time” before something like this happened due to ongoing reckless driving in the area.
Sequence of the Collision
While racing, one of the vehicles struck a third car that was pulling out of an alleyway. The impact was severe, leaving both people in the alleyway car injured.
Emergency responders from Emporia Fire/EMS and police arrived quickly. The injured victims were immediately transported to Newman Regional Health for medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been released to the public.
Arrest and Charges
The driver who caused the collision was identified as Patricio Morales. Police arrested Morales at the scene on suspicion of aggravated battery, a serious felony charge in Kansas that applies when reckless actions cause serious injury to others.
If convicted, Morales could face years in prison, in addition to fines, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record.
Third Vehicle Escapes
The second racing vehicle managed to flee before police arrived. As of 8:00 PM Thursday night, the driver and vehicle remain unidentified.
Police have not yet provided a detailed description but are urging anyone who saw the car to come forward. Investigators believe the missing driver could face criminal charges similar to Morales if found.
Police Investigation and Witness Appeal
The Emporia Police Department is actively investigating the case. Officers are reviewing surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses and public cameras in the downtown area.
Police are also conducting door-to-door interviews with people who may have seen the cars before or after the crash.
Community Reaction
Residents of Emporia are deeply concerned. Many say that street racing incidents have become more common and that stricter enforcement is needed.
Local shop owners in the downtown area have expressed worry that such incidents could harm both public safety and business activity, especially in high-foot-traffic areas.
One business owner stated:
“We’ve been seeing more speeding and reckless driving. This time it sent people to the hospital. We need stronger police patrols.”
Street Racing Risks and Penalties
Street racing is illegal in Kansas and comes with severe consequences. Even without causing an accident, drivers can face:
- Fines of hundreds or thousands of dollars
- License suspension
- Vehicle impoundment
- Jail time
When a street race leads to injuries or death, drivers can face felony charges like aggravated battery or vehicular homicide, which may lead to years in prison.
Why Street Racing Is So Dangerous
Street racing is often glorified in movies and social media, but the reality is far from glamorous. Dangerous factors include:
- High speeds that make it harder to react
- Unpredictable traffic patterns
- Limited control over the vehicle at extreme speeds
- Endangering pedestrians and cyclists
- Severe crash impact that can be fatal
In downtown areas like Emporia, where roads are shared by cars, buses, bikes, and pedestrians, the risk is even greater.
The downtown Emporia street racing crash is a wake-up call for the entire community. Two innocent people are now recovering in the hospital because of someone else’s dangerous driving decisions. While one suspect is in custody, the second racer remains on the run.
Police are urging the public to provide any information that could help bring the missing driver to justice. This incident serves as a strong reminder that street racing is not just illegal—it’s deadly. The community’s safety depends on everyone choosing to drive responsibly.