Belle Plaine, KS (April 27, 2026) – One man died and two children were seriously hurt in a crash on Saturday, April 25, in Sumner County near Belle Plaine.
The crash happened shortly before 5 p.m. near East 110th Avenue and North Oliver Road, about one mile north of Belle Plaine. Emergency units responded after a 2002 Dodge Ram left the roadway and struck a tree.
Reports state that 49-year-old Marty Vannordstrand, of Wichita, was driving the Dodge Ram on Oliver Road. He began passing in a no-passing zone, then lost control of the pickup. The vehicle went into a ditch before hitting the tree.
Vannordstrand died at the scene. Two passengers, ages 9 and 14, were taken to a Wichita hospital with suspected serious injuries.
The crash remains under investigation. Additional details may become available as authorities continue their review. Our condolences go out to Vannordstrand’s loved ones, and our thoughts are with the injured children as they recover.
Common Factors in Rural Roadway Crashes
Rural roads can carry unique risks because traffic may move at higher speeds with fewer nearby traffic controls. Passing zones, curves, ditches, and narrow shoulders can also affect how much room drivers have to react.
Crashes involving a vehicle leaving the roadway often cause serious harm because trees, poles, and other fixed objects do not absorb impact well. The force can be especially severe when a pickup or car strikes an object after entering a ditch.
Child passengers may face a higher risk of injury in serious crashes. Seat belt use, proper child restraints, impact angle, and vehicle damage can all affect injury severity after a roadway departure crash.
