Glen B. Kaw, a 78-year-old resident of Junction City, Kansas, has been identified as the victim of a tragic three-vehicle crash that occurred on August 22, 2024, in Manhattan. The fatal accident happened around 1:34 p.m. at the intersection of Seth Child Road and Anderson Avenue, causing significant road closures and traffic delays.
According to Riley County Police, the crash involved a white Honda Civic traveling eastbound on Anderson Avenue, which collided with a green Chevrolet Equinox SUV making a left turn onto Seth Child Road. The impact caused the Equinox to roll over, resulting in fatal injuries to Glen B. Kaw, who was a passenger in the SUV. Kaw was immediately transported to Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan, where he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival.
The driver of the Equinox, 77-year-old Karen Kaw, also of Junction City, sustained serious injuries in the crash. She was airlifted to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, and her current condition remains undisclosed as she continues to receive medical care.
Ronni Combs, the 41-year-old driver of the Honda Civic from Riley, was injured in the collision and taken by ambulance to Ascension Via Christi Hospital. The details of Combs’ injuries have not been released, and the investigation into the crash is ongoing.
A third vehicle, a Ford Focus driven by 35-year-old Jake Huber of Manhattan, was involved to a lesser extent. Huber’s car was struck during the initial collision, and he sought medical treatment for his injuries independently.
The intersection where the accident occurred was closed from approximately 1:34 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. as police conducted a thorough investigation and cleared the scene. This closure caused significant disruption in the area, highlighting the need for a detailed accident reconstruction.
The Riley County Police Department is actively investigating the cause of the crash and is seeking any additional witnesses who may have information. This tragic event has profoundly impacted the Junction City community, where Glen B. Kaw was a respected and beloved resident.
Social media has seen an outpouring of condolences and support for the Kaw family. Lynn Waack shared, "Prayers for the family and friends. Condolences." Merideth Clopton wrote, "My deepest condolences to the family and friends," while Natasha Baker simply stated, "So heartbreaking." Other community members, including Karen Finnesy Polson and Ryan Atkins, also expressed their sorrow over this sudden loss.
As the investigation continues, the community is mourning the loss of Glen B. Kaw and offering support to those injured in the crash. Local authorities are reviewing traffic patterns at the intersection of Seth Child Road and Anderson Avenue to consider potential safety measures to prevent future tragedies.