Harvey County, KS (September 11, 2025) – A 90-year-old Hesston man lost his life following a crash with a tractor-trailer on September 10. The Harvey County Sheriff’s Office reported that the collision occurred just after 7:00 a.m. on North Hesston Road (Old US-81) at the intersection with NW 36th Street.
Authorities stated that Peter Hartman was driving southeast on Hesston Road when his vehicle collided with a semi-trailer attempting to make a right-hand turn onto NW 36th Street. Emergency crews responded quickly, and Hartman was transported in critical condition to a hospital in Wichita. Despite medical intervention, he later succumbed to his injuries. No passengers were reported in either vehicle, and the driver of the semi was not injured.
The roadway was impacted as investigators documented the scene and coordinated cleanup efforts. Officials have not yet released further information, but the crash remains under investigation by the Harvey County Sheriff’s Office.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Hartman during this difficult time.
Fatal Collisions in Kansas
Crashes involving large commercial vehicles and passenger cars often carry devastating outcomes, particularly when they occur at intersections such as N Hesston Rd and NW 36th St. The size and weight of tractor-trailers make collisions with smaller vehicles especially dangerous, with a far higher likelihood of critical or fatal injuries to passenger car occupants.
Harvey County’s roadways, including stretches of Old US-81, connect rural and urban areas, making them frequent routes for both local drivers and commercial traffic. Turning movements, like those made by semis at intersections, can create high-risk situations if timing or visibility is compromised. Investigators typically review speed, sight lines, and driver decisions in these cases to determine contributing factors.
Fatal crashes leave families grappling not only with the sudden loss of a loved one but also with practical and financial challenges that follow. In such circumstances, gaining access to grief support services and resources for handling post-crash matters can help families navigate the difficult days ahead.
If you have lost a family member in a crash involving a tractor-trailer in Kansas, it’s important to understand the resources available to you. Support can make a significant difference in the healing process and in protecting your family’s well-being moving forward.
Losing someone in a crash is overwhelming, and the aftermath can leave families uncertain about what to do next. At Local Accident Reports, we help connect families in Kansas with the resources they need—from grief and counseling services to legal guidance. Reach out to Local Accident Reports today to find the compassionate support and direction you deserve.
