A tragic accident on Sunday evening claimed the life of a 21-year-old Louisiana man on Interstate 135 in Newton, Kansas. James Rundzieher of Rayville, Louisiana, was driving a GMC pickup truck when the vehicle left the roadway and crashed, resulting in his death.
The crash occurred around 9:10 p.m. on the southbound side of I-135, approximately half a mile south of 1st Street. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP), Rundzieher’s truck broke through the guardrail, plunged off the interstate, and came to rest on the train tracks below. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash but were unable to save him. Rundzieher was pronounced dead at the scene.
At this point, authorities have not determined whether Rundzieher was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Investigators are also looking into the cause of the vehicle leaving the roadway, but no official cause has been identified. The Kansas Highway Patrol continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The crash caused significant disruptions on I-135, prompting authorities to shut down the highway in both directions for several hours. Harvey County dispatch confirmed that crews were dispatched at around 9:15 p.m. after reports of a crash and vehicle fire. Emergency responders worked at the scene until 10:40 p.m. to clear the wreckage and reopen the highway. No other injuries were reported in connection with the crash.
While the cause of the accident remains under investigation, this tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and adhering to seat belt laws. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant and prioritize safety while on the road.
The Newton crash highlights the risks associated with highway travel, and local officials continue to work on determining what led to this fatal incident. The community is left grieving the loss of a young life, and the investigation remains ongoing as authorities search for answers.