Context:

A tragic head-on collision on a rural highway in eastern Kansas resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, including three people affiliated with Tulsa Public Schools. The incident occurred on U.S. 169 near Greeley, Kansas, causing both vehicles to burst into flames. Among the deceased were Donald 'DJ' Laster, a student from Booker T. Washington High School, Wayne Walls, a former coach and teacher, and Ja’mon Gilstrap, a transportation team member. The crash closed the highway for four hours as authorities investigated the cause of the accident. Dr. Ebony Johnson, superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools, expressed her condolences and highlighted the significant impact these individuals had on their community.

Dive Deeper:

• Eight people were killed in a head-on collision on a two-lane highway outside Greeley, Kansas, when two vehicles collided and caught fire.

• The crash occurred around 5:45 p.m. on U.S. 169, approximately 60 miles southwest of Kansas City, Missouri, and involved vehicles that were completely burned.

• Three of the victims had connections to Tulsa Public Schools, including a student, a former teacher-coach, and a school transportation employee.

• Donald 'DJ' Laster, a high school student, Wayne Walls, a former middle school coach and teacher, and Ja’mon Gilstrap, a transportation team member, were among those who lost their lives.

• The crash led to a four-hour closure of the highway as the Kansas Highway Patrol continued to work at the scene and investigate the accident.

• Dr. Ebony Johnson, superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools, expressed her heartbreak and commitment to honoring the contributions of the deceased, while calling for community support for those affected.

• The cause of the crash is still under investigation, with authorities yet to determine the circumstances leading to the deadly incident.