2012-05
NEWS RELEASE:
February 9, 2012
FROM: The Kansas Highway Patrol
CONTACT: Lieutenant Tom Catania (913) 782-8100
Update in Locating Vehicle Involved in I-35 Accident
The Kansas Highway Patrol has received numerous calls with information to help us locate the vehicle involved in a crash south of Olathe yesterday. We have additional information that we would like to report and are seeking more assistance. Witnesses described the semi-truck being white in color and the semi-trailer being white or grey in color, but also very dirty. As reported before, there will be extensive damage to the rear protection system of the trailer, with possible silver/grey paint transfer. A piece of the vehicle's hood or other parts of the vehicle were possibly impaled on the rear protection system of the semi-trailer. Through witnesses, the truck was tracked possibly as far north on I-35 to the Missouri/Iowa state line. So far we have no company name, registration plates, or unit numbers for the semi-truck or trailer. It is possible that the semi-truck driver never knew he was struck and may have reported the accident as a hit and run as well. Again, thanks for the support and the tips that have come in.
Background
Yesterday, February 8, 2012, at approximately 7:00 a.m., the Kansas Highway Patrol was dispatched to I-35 northbound, north of 175th (south of the Olathe city limits), for a two vehicle serious injury crash. Upon arrival, it was learned that a 33-year-old female driver struck the rear end of a truck tractor semi-trailer and sustained serious injuries. The truck did not stop at the scene. Witnesses described the truck as a tractor and trailer with an enclosed box. Evidence at the scene suggests that the truck may also have ice built up on it from traveling through icy areas. The truck should have significant damage to the rear end protection system of the trailer. Witnesses could not provide a color or any markings for the truck or trailer.
The Kansas Highway Patrol would like to speak to the driver and/or occupants of this vehicle and/or anyone who might have witnessed the incident. They are asked to call Lieutenant Tom Catania with the Kansas Highway Patrol at 913-782-8100. We appreciate any assistance you can offer!