Salina, KS (March 31, 2026) – A three-vehicle crash at an intersection in Salina left one person injured Sunday evening, March 29.
The collision occurred around 8:40 p.m. at College Avenue and Spruce Street. According to reports, a Dodge Ram pickup traveling northbound attempted to turn left onto Spruce Street but failed to yield to an oncoming Ford Explorer, resulting in a collision. During the impact, a tire from the pickup came off and hit a third vehicle nearby.
The driver of the Ford Explorer, 30-year-old Mathew K. Pfannenstiel of Salina, was taken to a hospital with injuries. The other drivers involved were not reported hurt.
Traffic in the area was affected as crews responded and cleared the scene. Additional details about the crash have not been released.
The crash remains under investigation. Additional details may become available as authorities continue their review. Our thoughts are with those affected as they continue to recover.
How Turning Movements at Intersections Can Lead to Crashes
Left turns at intersections can increase the risk of a crash, especially when drivers must cross oncoming traffic. Misjudging the speed or distance of approaching vehicles can lead to sudden collisions.
When one vehicle fails to yield the right of way, the impact often occurs at angles that can push vehicles into other lanes or nearby traffic. In some cases, parts of a vehicle may break off during the collision, creating additional hazards.
Even when injuries are minor, these crashes can involve multiple vehicles and disrupt traffic flow. Drivers approaching intersections are often required to make quick decisions, which can increase the likelihood of errors.
