Marina
A fatal rollover crash occurred Wednesday morning on Interstate 70 in Wabaunsee County, near mile marker 329—just west of the town of McFarland. A passenger van carrying 13 men suffered a catastrophic rear tire blowout, causing it to lose control, cross the median, and roll over multiple times.
Details of the Incident
- Time of crash: Around 8:22 a.m.
- Location: I-70 near mile marker 329, Wabaunsee County (McFarland area)
- Vehicle: 2022 Ford Transit passenger van
- Passengers: 13 adult men, ages between 20 and 41
- Cause: Rear tire blowout
Casualties and Injuries
| Victim / Injury | Details |
|---|---|
| Fatality | Isaiah Adkins, 23, from West Jefferson, Ohio – pronounced dead at the scene; not properly restrained |
| Serious Injuries | Driver (43-year-old from Ohio) and 6 others – hospitalized with serious injuries |
| Airlifted to Hospital | 2 critically injured individuals airlifted to Kansas City hospital |
| Minor Injuries | Approximately half of the van occupants—cuts, bruises, abrasions |
| Total Hospitalized | 12 men hospitalized for injuries |
Crash Breakdown
The rear tire blowout triggered the van to swerve uncontrollably into the center median. The vehicle rolled several times before coming to rest upright. Authorities reported two occupants were ejected during the rollover.
The driver, a 43-year-old from Ohio, sustained serious injuries, while Isaiah Adkins, 23, was tragically killed on impact. Officials noted he was not properly restrained at the time of the crash.
Of the remaining passengers, six sustained serious injuries, with two requiring immediate air transport to a hospital in Kansas City for urgent medical care. The other six were treated for minor injuries, including cuts, bruises, and abrasions.
Safety Concerns and Aftermath
Emergency responders reported heavy traffic delays as the accident occurred. As crews worked the scene, westbound eastbound traffic was rerouted through nearby weigh stations to manage and maintain flow. All family members of those involved were notified by authorities.
The van’s passengers were identified as employees of a security company traveling from Colorado to Ohio.
The devastating I-70 rollover crash underscores the critical importance of tire safety and seatbelt restraint. A single tire failure led to a cascade of consequences: the loss of one life, multiple serious injuries, and widespread disruption along a major interstate corridor.
This tragedy is a sobering reminder that routine vehicle maintenance and proper in-vehicle safety practices can be the difference between life and death on the road.
