Butler County, KS (February 18, 2025) – Six people, including two young children, were injured in a crash at the intersection of Kansas 254 and Southwest Adams Rd on Monday afternoon.
The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that the accident occurred just after 2:30 p.m. when a 2017 Ford Explorer, driven by 28-year-old Braden Kirkpatrick of Benton, attempted to cross westbound traffic on Kansas 254. Kirkpatrick reportedly failed to yield at a well-marked yield sign, resulting in a collision with a westbound 2007 Honda Pilot driven by 45-year-old John Arnaldi of Haysville.
Emergency responders transported multiple victims to Wesley Medical Center for treatment. Kirkpatrick, along with a 6-year-old girl and a 10-month-old girl in the Ford, were among those hospitalized. The Kansas Highway Patrol noted that the 6-year-old child was not in a proper child safety seat at the time of the crash.
Arnaldi and two passengers in the Honda—42-year-old Raven Haule and 16-year-old Isabella Cook, both of Haysville—were also transported to the hospital. The extent of their injuries has not yet been disclosed. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Our thoughts are with the injured victims, and we wish them a full recovery.
Intersection Safety and Child Passenger Protection in Kansas
Intersections are one of the most common locations for crashes, particularly when drivers fail to yield the right of way. High-speed roadways such as Kansas 254 pose an even greater risk for severe collisions when vehicles do not properly adhere to traffic control signs. Drivers must remain vigilant, especially at intersections with high cross-traffic volumes.
This accident also highlights the importance of child passenger safety. According to Kansas law, children under the age of 4 must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat, while children aged 4 to 7 must use a booster seat unless they exceed height or weight limits. Failing to secure young passengers properly can increase the severity of injuries in a crash.
Victims of traffic accidents often face long recovery periods, medical expenses, and emotional distress. Legal and medical support can be crucial in helping them move forward after an accident. Understanding Kansas traffic laws and ensuring proper vehicle safety can help reduce the risk of these tragic incidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, Local Accident Reports can provide guidance and connect you with valuable resources. Contact us for more information on navigating the recovery process.