Manhattan, KS (September 10, 2026) – A 19-year-old woman was seriously injured on Tuesday, September 8, after she was struck by a vehicle in a pedestrian crash in Manhattan.
The collision was reported around 5:22 p.m. at the intersection of Denison Avenue and Jardine Drive. According to the Riley County Police Department, a BMW X6 driven by a 27-year-old Junction City woman struck the pedestrian, identified as Elizabeth Sakura Lyle, 19, of Manhattan.
Lyle was transported to Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan with serious injuries. The circumstances surrounding the crash remained under investigation, and additional details were not immediately available.
Our thoughts are with the injured woman and her loved ones during this difficult time. We wish her a full and speedy recovery.
How Can Drivers Reduce the Risk of Pedestrian Crashes at Intersections?
Intersections can be particularly challenging for pedestrians because vehicles may approach from several directions and drivers may be preparing to turn. Motorists should reduce their speed as they approach crossings and actively scan for people walking or waiting near the roadway. Checking the entire intersection before proceeding can help drivers identify hazards that may otherwise be missed.
Turning vehicles require additional caution because a driver may be focused on traffic rather than the crosswalk. Drivers should yield to pedestrians when required and continue looking through the turn instead of assuming the crossing is clear. Avoiding distractions and keeping attention on the roadway can provide more time to react.
Pedestrians can also improve their safety by using marked crossings and following pedestrian signals where available. Staying alert to approaching vehicles is important even when a pedestrian has the right of way. At busy intersections, making eye contact with a driver when possible can help confirm that the vehicle has been noticed before crossing.
