Coffey Co., KS (June 26, 2026) – One person was taken to a hospital on Thursday evening, June 25, after a three-vehicle accident on Interstate 35 in Coffey County. The crash happened around 6:20 p.m., about 10 miles north of New Strawn.
The Kansas Highway Patrol said a 2018 Volvo semi-tractor was traveling south on Interstate 35. The semi was turning into the left lane while attempting to make a U-turn.
At the same time, the driver of a 2024 Kia Forte went through the median to avoid a collision. A 2023 Ford F-550 then collided with the semi.
The semi came to rest, blocking both southbound lanes. The Ford had three occupants, including 58-year-old Juan Salinas of Brownsville, Texas, who was taken to Coffey County Hospital with a suspected minor injury.
The Ford driver, 56-year-old Isaac Vasquez, and another occupant, 44-year-old Albaro Zamorano, were not hurt. The semi driver and the Kia driver also had no apparent injuries. All people involved were wearing safety restraints. Investigators are reviewing the wreck on Interstate 35.
We hope the injured passenger recovers safely.
Why Semi-Truck Crashes Can Block Several Lanes
Semi-truck crashes can create major traffic problems because large trucks take up more space than passenger vehicles. When a semi stops across lanes, drivers behind it may have little room to pass safely.
Multi-vehicle crashes can also unfold quickly when drivers try to avoid a hazard ahead. A vehicle may leave its lane, enter a median, or stop suddenly to prevent another collision.
Even when most people are not badly hurt, medical checks may still be needed. Investigators usually review lane changes, turning movements, vehicle positions, and road markings to understand the order of events. Later updates may provide more about the truck’s movement and how the vehicles came together.
