Hailey
Road accidents can happen suddenly, even when drivers think they are in full control. On a quiet Tuesday morning, a routine drive on the Kansas Turnpike turned dangerous when two vehicles collided southwest of Emporia.
This rewritten report explains what happened, who was involved, and what officials have confirmed so far — all in simple language that is easy to understand.
What Happened on the Turnpike?
The crash took place early Tuesday around 6 am near mile marker 116.1. This location is about three miles southwest of the Lyon–Chase county line and roughly 11 miles southwest of the Emporia tollgate.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, both vehicles involved were heading southbound at the time of the accident. The road was busy with morning travelers, and visibility was still low around that hour.
How the Crash Occurred
Officials say the incident started when 36-year-old Brandon Massey, a driver from Topeka, attempted to pass another vehicle on the turnpike. The other vehicle was driven by 34-year-old Bianca Blakney from Sioux City, Iowa.
While trying to overtake the car, Massey reportedly lost control of his pickup truck. When this happened, his truck slid sideways and hit Blakney’s car, pushing her vehicle across the lane. The impact caused her car to crash into a guardrail, resulting in damage and injuries inside the vehicle.
Who Was Injured?
Massey, the pickup driver, was not injured in the crash.
However, inside the car, both occupants suffered possible injuries:
- Bianca Blakney, 34, the driver
- Jaquillah Johnson, 33, a passenger from Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Both were taken to Newman Regional Health for observation and treatment. Their injuries were not described as life-threatening at the time of the report. Doctors kept them under watch to ensure no hidden injuries developed later.
Seatbelt Use and Safety Measures
One important detail shared by the Kansas Highway Patrol is that all three people involved in the wreck were wearing seatbelts. This safety measure likely helped reduce the seriousness of their injuries.
Accident Details Overview
Here is a simple table showing the key facts from the incident:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Tuesday, around 6 am |
| Location | Kansas Turnpike, Mile Marker 116.1 |
| Vehicles Involved | Pickup Truck & Car |
| Drivers | Brandon Massey (Truck), Bianca Blakney (Car) |
| Injured Persons | Bianca Blakney and passenger Jaquillah Johnson |
| Hospital | Newman Regional Health |
| Seatbelts Worn | Yes, by all |
Why the Crash Matters
Incidents like this remind drivers how quickly a simple passing maneuver can become dangerous. Losing control for even a moment can cause serious harm to others on the road. The use of seatbelts, however, played a major role in reducing injuries in this case.
This turnpike crash southwest of Emporia is a clear example of how unpredictable road conditions can be. Even an attempt to pass another vehicle can lead to a serious accident if the driver loses control.
Fortunately, everyone involved was wearing seatbelts, which helped protect them during the collision. As authorities continue to remind drivers, staying alert, keeping a safe distance, and using proper safety measures can prevent tragic outcomes on busy highways.