NWKS Radio Goodland and Colby KS: As reported earlier, At approximately 3:22 PM on March 14, a strong weather front, fueled by high winds from Colorado, moved into the area, rapidly reducing visibility to near zero. As traffic slowed, multiple crashes occurred, involving more than 50 vehicles. Tragically, eight fatalities have been confirmed, with many more injured. Emergency responders continue to assist those in need, and the Kansas Highway Patrol’s Critical Highway Accident Response Team (CHART) and Commercial Vehicle Inspectors are actively investigating the scene.
The investigation into the cause of the pile-up is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather all the necessary information. As of now, Interstate 70 between Goodland and Colby remains closed until further notice. (see full story here: https://www.nwksradio.net/post/massive-dust-storm-leads-to-tragic-accidents-in-northwest-kansas-interstate-70-closed-for-ongoing-c
According to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Todd's Facebook page, the number of vehicles involved in the wreck is up to 71 from a previously released 50+. A reported 8 fatalities from the accident, including Fort Hays Tech Northwest student, Dawson Hogan. FHTNW President Ben Shears released a statement on social media and included this information "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic loss of one of our Electrical Technology students, Dawson Hogan, who was among those who lost their lives in the dust storm outside of Goodland yesterday. Dawson was traveling home to Salina to spend time with his family over spring break...."
We have included with permission photos and video of the accident yesterday from Robert John Rybak who was traveling from Colorado Springs to Ohio and was involved in the pile-up. Rybak said on social media, "We made it out with just the clothes on our back and our dog."
Trooper Todd stated on his social media, "Everyone out here is working as fast as they can to get the interstate opened up again, but as you can see, this is a very large task."
Thomas and Sherman Counties in Kansas have declared a State of Emergency. Interstate 70 is still closed at this time from Colby to Goodland East and Westbound as crews continue to clean up. Aerial views of the accident scene from Kansas Highway Patrol.
