Marina
A tragic head-on collision on a two-lane highway in rural eastern Kansas has resulted in eight fatalities, including a high school student, a teacher-coach, and a school employee from Oklahoma. The crash also left one survivor hospitalized, authorities reported on Monday.
Incident Details
The devastating accident occurred around 5:45 p.m. on Sunday, along U.S. 169, just outside the small town of Greeley, located approximately 60 miles (97 kilometers) southwest of Kansas City, Missouri.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the collision caused both vehicles to burst into flames, tragically killing all but one of the occupants. The lone survivor was able to escape the wreckage and was transported to a nearby hospital.
Victims Involved
The Tulsa Public Schools district confirmed that three of the deceased were affiliated with the district. These victims include Donald “DJ” Laster, a student from Booker T. Washington High School, Wayne Walls, a former coach and teacher at Carver Middle School, and Ja’mon Gilstrap, a transportation team member for Tulsa Public Schools.
Statement from Tulsa Public Schools
Dr. Ebony Johnson, Superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools, expressed her deep sorrow, stating, “I am heartbroken for those who lost loved ones, and committed to honoring the immense collective impact each of these people had in Tulsa and in the lives of our young people.
I am praying for their families and everyone involved, and hope others will continue to come alongside our students, team members, and families who are hurting.”
Crash Aftermath and Ongoing Investigation
The accident led to the closure of the highway for nearly four hours, as authorities continued to investigate the scene.
Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Jodi Clary reported that, “Both cars burned up,” emphasizing the severity of the crash. As of Monday evening, the investigation into the cause of the collision remains ongoing.
Key Facts and Figures
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date and Time | 5:45 p.m. Sunday |
| Location | U.S. 169, near Greeley, Kansas |
| Fatalities | 8 deaths |
| Survivor | 1 person hospitalized |
| Involved Parties | Tulsa Public Schools members (3) |
| Cause of Crash | Under investigation |
| Highway Closure | 4 hours |
The devastating crash in rural eastern Kansas has left a community in mourning. The tragic loss of three individuals connected to Tulsa Public Schools underscores the far-reaching impact of such accidents on families, friends, and entire communities.
As authorities continue their investigation, our thoughts remain with the victims’ loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.