Coffey County, KS (February 2, 2026) – Three people, including two Topeka residents, were hospitalized following a three-vehicle crash late on Sunday morning on US-75 in Coffey County. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the crash occurred around 11:30 a.m., approximately nine miles north of Burlington. According to officials, a 2018 GMC Sierra attempted to pass a 2023 Kenworth semitrailer but was unable to complete the maneuver and veered into the east ditch, where it collided with a 2007 Toyota Corolla. The impact pushed the Toyota into the semi. The occupants of the GMC, 75-year-old Steven R. Quick and 74-year-old Audrey I. Quick, were transported to Coffey County Hospital with suspected minor injuries. The Toyota driver, 31-year-old Brittany Charboneau of Lebo, was also hospitalized with minor injuries. The semi driver was not injured. All involved were reported to be wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
Key Details
- Location: Coffey County, KS
- Where: US-75, approximately 9 miles north of Burlington
- Type: Three-Vehicle Crash
- Reported: February 1
- Injuries: Confirmed (3 hospitalized)
- Responding Agency: Kansas Highway Patrol
What We Know So Far
- The crash occurred at 11:30 a.m. on US-75 northbound near Burlington.
- A GMC Sierra attempted to pass a semi and collided with a Toyota Corolla after veering into a ditch.
- The Toyota then struck the semi; all three vehicles came to rest off or near the roadway.
- Three people were transported to area hospitals with minor injuries.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The specific cause of the GMC’s failed passing attempt.
- Whether citations or charges will be issued following the investigation.
- Extent of damage to the vehicles involved.
- Duration of traffic disruption on US-75 after the crash.
Local Context
US-75 north of Burlington is a rural highway stretch with limited passing zones and high-speed travel. Drivers attempting to pass slower-moving semitrailers face visibility and timing challenges, particularly in areas where road shoulders or ditches offer little room for recovery. Sunday’s crash prompted a multi-agency response and temporarily affected northbound traffic. The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to investigate the chain of events that led to the three-vehicle collision involving a GMC, a Toyota, and a Kenworth semi. While all involved were wearing seat belts, the incident underscores the risks of misjudged passing maneuvers on rural highways.
What to Do Next
- Follow directions from police or emergency personnel and use caution around emergency vehicles and traffic changes.
- Write down the time, location, and what you observed while the details are still fresh.
- If witnesses are present, collect names and contact information when possible.
- Monitor how you feel after the crash. Some injuries can appear hours or days later.
FAQ
Q: Why do multi-vehicle crashes take longer to clear?
A: Multiple vehicles require more time for documentation, cleanup, and coordination among responders, which can prolong lane closures and delays.
Q: What should drivers do when passing on two-lane highways?
A: Ensure there is ample time, space, and visibility before attempting a pass. Never pass in no-passing zones or when oncoming traffic is present.
Q: Can an investigation continue after the scene is cleared?
A: Yes. Authorities often follow up with additional evidence review, witness statements, and formal reports even after traffic has resumed.
