Late Friday evening, a devastating crash on Kansas Highway 10 (K-10) near Lawrence claimed the life of 41-year-old Michael T. Dieker from Kansas City, Missouri. The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. between West 27th Street and Iowa Street, prompting a swift response from local authorities and emergency services.
Dieker was driving a 2019 Kia Forte eastbound when the collision occurred. The driver of the westbound 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe, 23-year-old Eliseo J. Munoz of Lawrence, reportedly crossed the center line, resulting in a head-on collision. Tragically, Dieker was pronounced dead at the scene. Munoz sustained serious injuries and was transported to Overland Park Regional Medical Center for treatment. The Kansas Highway Patrol’s crash report indicates that Munoz was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The crash led to the closure of K-10 between West 27th and Iowa streets for several hours as emergency responders worked at the scene. The highway was reopened just before 4 a.m. on Saturday, following the completion of the initial investigation and cleanup.
This tragic event has left the Lawrence community mourning the loss of Michael Dieker and serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers on the road. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.