Ellsworth County, KS (January 11, 2026) – A head-on collision in Ellsworth County claimed the life of a California woman on Friday afternoon. The crash occurred at approximately 4:43 p.m. on January 9, along K-14 just north of Avenue Q, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.
Authorities say 54-year-old Stephanie Stevens of Rio Vista, CA, was driving southbound on K-14 when her vehicle began to spin. Her car crossed into the northbound lane and collided head-on with another vehicle. Stevens suffered critical injuries and was transported for treatment, but she was later pronounced dead at 8:14 p.m.
The driver of the second vehicle, a 47-year-old, sustained minor injuries and did not require hospitalization.
The Kansas Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the cause of the crash, including whether weather, road conditions, or mechanical issues contributed to the loss of control. No other vehicles were involved.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Stephanie Stevens during this difficult time, and we wish the other driver a full and swift recovery.
