Marshall Co., KS (June 9, 2026) – A 41-year-old Marysville man died Monday afternoon, June 8, after an industrial farm sprayer was struck by a train in Marshall County.
The accident happened around 4:40 p.m. at the Union Pacific Railroad Crossing near 675 Harvest Road. The Kansas Highway Patrol identified the man as Ryan Friedrichs.
According to the report, Friedrichs was driving the sprayer south on a private driveway just south of Harvest Road. He failed to stop at a stop sign before the vehicle entered the railroad crossing.
A westbound train then hit the sprayer, and Friedrichs was ejected. He died after the wreck.
Two train conductors had serious injuries and were brought to Community Memorial Healthcare in Marysville. Further details about their medical status were not immediately available.
The deadly rail crossing crash remains under review as investigators continue gathering facts. We extend our sincere condolences to Friedrichs’ family and loved ones.
Farm Equipment Near Railroad Crossings Brings Added Safety Concerns
Large farm machines may move slowly and need more time to cross railroad tracks. Their size can also make it harder for drivers to judge distance, speed, and clearance at a crossing.
Private driveways near tracks can create added risk because they may have less traffic than public roads. Drivers may become familiar with the route, but trains can approach quickly and quietly depending on the surroundings.
Rail crossings often require careful attention to stop signs, warning signals, sight lines, and nearby road layout. Farm equipment operators may also need extra space to stop or turn safely. When a train and large machine make contact, the force can be severe because trains cannot stop quickly, even when operators react right away.
