A tragic head-on collision on U.S. Highway 169 in Franklin County, Kansas, on Sunday, May 4, 2025, claimed the lives of eight individuals in one of the deadliest traffic incidents the region has seen in recent memory. Among the victims were Madalyn Elliott of Chesterfield, Missouri, and several others with ties to youth basketball in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
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What Happened on U.S. 169?
The fatal crash occurred just before 5:45 p.m. near Virginia Road, when a southbound GMC Yukon attempted to pass a slower-moving vehicle. While doing so, the Yukon collided head-on with a northbound 2016 Subaru Legacy. The impact caused both vehicles to burst into flames, leaving emergency responders with little hope of rescue.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the severity of the fire made survival nearly impossible for any of the vehicle occupants.
Victims in the GMC Yukon: Tulsa Youth Basketball Community Devastated
The GMC Yukon was driven by 33-year-old Jaimon Gilstrap of Tulsa, Oklahoma, who was tragically killed in the collision. Also pronounced dead at the scene were:
- Kyron Gilstrap, 14
- Donald Laster, 14
- Wayne Walls, 41 – a youth basketball coach
The group was reportedly returning home after attending a youth basketball event. The tight-knit community is now mourning the loss of young lives and a beloved mentor.
A fifth passenger, a 15-year-old from Talala, Oklahoma, survived the crash but remains in critical condition. Community members have rallied to support the teen and their family during this harrowing time.
Victims in the Subaru Legacy: Chesterfield and Ames Families Lost
The Subaru Legacy was driven by 37-year-old Alexander Ernst of Ames, Iowa, who was traveling with family members from Chesterfield, Missouri:
- John Elliott, 76
- Norleen Elliott, 69
- Madalyn Elliott, 33
All four passengers were killed in the crash. The Elliott family was known in the Chesterfield community for their active involvement in local organizations and events. Their sudden deaths have left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew them.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The Kansas Highway Patrol is still investigating the crash, though early indications suggest that the passing maneuver by the Yukon driver played a central role in the accident. Witnesses described a horrific scene with both vehicles fully engulfed in flames, underscoring the catastrophic impact of the crash.
In the aftermath, memorial services and GoFundMe campaigns have been launched to support the grieving families and assist with funeral expenses. The youth basketball community in Tulsa and residents of Chesterfield and Ames have united in sorrow, offering prayers, financial support, and words of comfort.
Conclusion: Honoring the Lives Lost
This devastating collision on U.S. 169 serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can change. The loss of eight individuals — including children, parents, and community leaders — has deeply impacted families across multiple states.
As the communities of Tulsa, Chesterfield, Ames, and Franklin County come to terms with the tragedy, the memory of Madalyn Elliott, Jaimon and Kyron Gilstrap, Donald Laster, Wayne Walls, and the Elliott family will endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.
May they rest in peace, and may those left behind find strength, healing, and support in the days ahead.