The driver of the Semi truck has been identified as 47 year old Jeff Duhsmann of West Point Nebraska. Jeff was released from Wesley Hospital at midnight. The driver of the passenger car was identified as 54 year old Michael Ehss. Our heart felt thoughts go out to Michael's family.
HWY 50 remained closed till 3:30 AM as the Kansas Highway Patrol charted and investigated the accident. It appeared Michael was traveling east attempting to pass a ve...hicle. When he entered the west bound lane he was hit head on by the cattle hauling Semi.
Our appreciation extends to KDOT who remained on scene the entire time working traffic control, the local farmers who showed up to unload the cattle from the roll over Semi were simply amazing as they put up panels, gates, and loading the cattle on trailers, a total of eight animals were killed or put down as a result of the roll over, all the emergency personnel from Walton Fire, Newton Fire, Newton PD, Walton PD who provided assistance in this tragic event and Veterinarian Doctor Regier who accessed the condition of the cattle.
HWY 50 took another life. For those who travel HWY 50, be observant, stay focused and don't be distracted. Please arrive at your destinations safely.
T. Walton
Harvey County Sheriff
