Kansas City police have identified two women who tragically lost their lives in a crash on Interstate 435 early Friday morning. The victims were 24-year-old Breanna Burlington, who was driving, and her 21-year-old sister, Alexis Burlington, who was a passenger in the back seat. Both women died after their vehicle plunged into the Blue River.
The accident occurred just before 3:30 a.m. when Breanna, Alexis, and a male passenger were traveling westbound on I-435 near 103rd Street. Investigators revealed that Breanna was driving too fast for the winter conditions, causing her to lose control of the vehicle. The car went over a snowbank on the highway, launched off the bridge, and fell approximately 100 feet into the Blue River below.
The male passenger, sitting in the front seat, sustained critical injuries in the crash. He was quickly rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment, but there have been no further updates on his condition as of the latest reports.
This tragic incident underscores the dangers of driving in winter conditions, particularly when speeding on icy roads or navigating snowbanks. Authorities have cautioned drivers to take extra precautions during winter months, urging them to slow down and be mindful of road conditions.
The Kansas City Police Department is continuing its investigation into the cause of the crash and is working to determine any additional factors that may have contributed to the tragedy. As the community mourns the loss of Breanna and Alexis, their family and friends are left grappling with the aftermath of this heartbreaking event.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the crash to come forward. As the investigation unfolds, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved when driving in hazardous winter weather.