Wabaunsee County, KS (March 24, 2026) – A 2-year-old girl died following a crash that occurred on Sunday afternoon on Interstate 70 near Paxico. The incident happened shortly before 5 p.m.
Authorities said a Ford F-150 was traveling eastbound when it left the roadway to the right. The driver then overcorrected, causing the pickup to cross the lanes and strike a limestone embankment in the median.
The child, identified as Diora Lewis, was unrestrained and sitting on another passenger’s lap at the time of the crash. She was taken to a hospital, where, unfortunately, she died three days later from her injuries.
The driver, a 39-year-old woman, and three other passengers, ages 11, 14, and 16, were also taken to a hospital with minor injuries. No additional details about what led to the crash have been released.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our sincere condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones during this difficult time.
Why Passenger Positioning Affects Injury Risk in Crashes
Passenger safety inside a vehicle depends on proper seating and restraint use. When occupants are not secured with seatbelts or proper restraints, the risk of injury can increase.
In sudden crashes, unrestrained passengers may be thrown within the vehicle or into other occupants. This can lead to more severe outcomes, especially for young children.
Vehicle movement, speed, and impact direction all influence how injuries occur. Proper seating arrangements can help reduce harm during a collision.
