Perry, KS (September 2, 2025) – A tragic collision in Jefferson County claimed two lives and left two children seriously injured on Sunday evening. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred shortly after 8:30 p.m. at the intersection of US Highway 24 and Kansas Highway 237, just south of Perry Lake.
Authorities say 33-year-old Shelby Copp of Oskaloosa was driving a Hyundai Kona southbound on K-237 with two young girls, ages 6 and 8, as passengers. Copp failed to stop at a stop sign and entered the path of a westbound Chevy Suburban hauling a boat, driven by a Topeka couple. The Suburban struck the Kona on its passenger side.
The impact caused the boat trailer to detach, striking a third vehicle occupied by two teens. Fortunately, those teenagers were not injured. Tragically, Copp and 66-year-old Connie Gould, a passenger in the Suburban, were pronounced dead at the scene. The two children in the Kona were transported to nearby hospitals with serious injuries.
The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to investigate the collision.
Our deepest condolences go out to the families impacted by this devastating crash, and we hope for the recovery of the children who remain hospitalized.
Deadly Intersections on Kansas Highways
Crashes at rural highway intersections, such as US-24 and K-237 in Jefferson County, remain a significant safety concern in Kansas. Unlike urban areas where traffic lights regulate movement, many of these junctions are controlled only by stop signs. When drivers fail to yield, the results can be catastrophic—particularly when high-speed vehicles collide with SUVs or trucks hauling heavy loads.
Sunday’s crash illustrates these risks clearly: a passenger vehicle crossing into the path of a Suburban hauling a boat created a forceful impact that not only claimed two lives but also led to secondary damage when the trailer struck another vehicle. For children and other passengers, these incidents often result in severe injuries, as restraint systems are sometimes insufficient against high-energy crashes.
Kansas authorities continually stress the importance of obeying stop signs and approaching rural intersections with caution. Many of the most serious collisions in the state happen outside city limits, where higher speeds and longer response times for emergency crews add to the dangers.
For families affected by crashes like this, the aftermath often includes both emotional devastation and significant financial burdens tied to medical care, funeral costs, and long-term recovery. State law allows victims and their families to pursue compensation when negligence is involved, though navigating that process requires timely legal and medical support.
If you or a loved one has been impacted by a serious crash in Kansas, Local Accident Reports can help. We connect victims and families with compassionate professionals who provide the guidance and resources necessary to move forward after such a tragedy. Contact us today for the support you need.
