Allen County, KS (March 14, 2025) – A tragic accident on U.S. Highway 54 claimed the life of a 44-year-old man from Moran, Kansas, after he was ejected from his truck and struck by another vehicle.
The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) reported that the incident occurred around 8 p.m. on Thursday in the eastbound lanes. Authorities stated that a Ford F-250 hauling a large hay bale was traveling east when a Chevy Silverado rear-ended it. The impact caused the Ford to overturn, ejecting its driver, identified as Scott R. Welch, into the westbound lanes.
A westbound Chevy Equinox then struck Welch, fatally injuring him. KHP confirmed that Welch was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. The drivers of the Equinox, a 22-year-old, and the Silverado, an 84-year-old, were not injured. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim during this difficult time.
Seatbelt Use and Highway Safety in Kansas
Highway crashes, particularly those involving high-speed impacts and heavy cargo, can have devastating consequences. U.S. Highway 54 is a well-traveled route through Kansas, and accidents on this roadway are often linked to visibility issues, distracted driving, and failure to use proper safety restraints.
The Kansas Highway Patrol emphasizes the importance of seatbelt use, as statistics show that individuals not restrained during crashes are far more likely to be ejected from their vehicles, increasing the risk of severe injury or death. In collisions involving commercial or heavy-haul vehicles, additional precautions should be taken to ensure proper cargo visibility and secure loading to prevent accidents.
For those affected by highway accidents, seeking professional guidance can help with understanding legal rights, medical care options, and financial recovery.
If you or a loved one has been impacted by a serious accident, Local Accident Reports can provide information and resources to assist during this difficult time.
