Emily Larson killed, another injured in Fatal Two-Vehicle Collision on U.S. 36 in Marshall County

MARSHALL COUNTY, Kan. — A tragic two-vehicle collision on U.S. 36 in Marshall County on Wednesday morning resulted in the death of a young woman and left another with serious injuries. The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) reported that the accident occurred around 11:45 a.m., just east of West River Road.

According to the KHP, the crash involved a westbound Jeep Cherokee driven by 23-year-old Emily Larson from Bremen and an eastbound Buick Enclave driven by 89-year-old Bernice Nietfeld of Marysville. Investigators revealed that Larson’s vehicle veered across the center line and collided head-on with Nietfeld’s Buick Enclave.

Tragically, Larson was pronounced dead at the scene. Nietfeld sustained serious injuries in the crash and was airlifted to a hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she is currently receiving treatment. Her condition remains critical as medical professionals work to provide the necessary care.

The investigation into the collision has underscored the critical importance of seatbelt use. According to the KHP, neither Larson nor Nietfeld was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident. Authorities have highlighted the absence of seatbelt use as a significant factor in the severity of the injuries sustained, noting that proper restraint could have potentially altered the outcome of this tragic event.

The Kansas Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the exact cause of the crash, including why Larson’s vehicle crossed the center line. While the precise factors remain under investigation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of not wearing seatbelts and the critical role they play in reducing injuries in traffic collisions.

This tragic accident has shaken the communities of Bremen and Marysville, as both families and neighbors are left grappling with the sudden loss and the serious injuries sustained. Larson, described by those who knew her as a vibrant young woman with a promising future, leaves behind a grieving family and friends who are struggling to come to terms with her untimely death.

In the aftermath of the collision, the Kansas Highway Patrol has reiterated its ongoing commitment to road safety and has urged all drivers to prioritize seatbelt use. This incident also serves as a reminder to the public about the unpredictable nature of driving and the importance of remaining vigilant and cautious behind the wheel.

As the investigation continues, the KHP will work to piece together the events leading up to the crash, examining all possible factors, including road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driver behavior. The outcome of this investigation aims to provide answers to the families affected and to inform future safety measures on Kansas roads.

The KHP encourages anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to come forward. They hope that through their ongoing efforts and public cooperation, they can bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding this tragic accident and work towards preventing similar incidents in the future.