Pawnee County, KS (March 13, 2026) – A 12-year-old boy died after a crash involving a dirt bike and a pickup truck on Thursday evening, March 12, near the intersection of K-156 and 210th Avenue in Pawnee County.
Emergency units responded to the scene around 7:22 p.m. at the rural intersection located about eight miles west of Larned. Officials said a 2005 Honda CRF150 dirt bike was traveling south on 210th Avenue when it entered the intersection. According to reports, the vehicles collided at the intersection.
The rider of the dirt bike, identified as 12-year-old Gaabriel Mull of Larned, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities said he was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. The driver of the pickup truck, 55-year-old Robert L. Seder of Great Bend, was not injured.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased victim.
Why Rural Highway Intersections Can Be Dangerous for Smaller Vehicles
Intersections between rural highways and county roads, such as K-156 and 210th Avenue, often involve vehicles traveling at higher speeds on the main roadway. Drivers entering or crossing these highways must carefully judge the speed and distance of approaching traffic.
Smaller vehicles, such as motorcycles or dirt bikes, may accelerate quickly but offer less protection in a collision. When these vehicles enter a highway intersection at the wrong time, the speed difference between them can cause severe consequences.
Open rural areas may also have fewer traffic signals or warning devices at intersections. This means drivers must rely on clear visibility and careful timing when entering or crossing a highway.
