KHP releases name of man killed in crash with trooper

Editor’s note: This story has been updated with new information from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

SHERIDAN COUNTY, Kan. (KSNW) — The Kansas Highway Patrol has released the name of the person killed in a crash with a trooper on Monday. The trooper was trying to get to the scene of a fatal crash in Sheridan County and crashed into an SUV.

The driver of the SUV, Gerald Rahier II, 42, of Hoxie, died at the scene. His 4- and 5-year-old boys and a 38-year-old woman from Hoxie have serious injuries. One of the children was airlifted to a hospital. The woman and the other child were taken to the Sheridan County Health Complex.

The KHP says Trooper Ethan Masterson, 27, of Oakley, was westbound on 100 South Road, with emergency lights and a siren activated, as he approached 40 East Road. At the intersection, the trooper crashed into the driver’s side of the southbound SUV.

The trooper was treated for minor injuries.

The Kansas Highway Patrol Critical Highway Accident Response Team was called to the scene. The KHP says the crash remains under investigation.

The Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office posted a comment on social media about the two fatal crashes.

Monday, August 19th, 2024, was an extraordinarily challenging day for our emergency services in Sheridan County. Sadly, we faced not just one, but two heartbreaking tragedies.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families who lost a loved one. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by the events of that day. We stand with you in this time of sorrow and remain committed to supporting our community during this difficult time.”

Sheridan County Sheriff’s Office

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