Salina, Kansas – The community of Salina is grieving the loss of 37-year-old Brandon L. Doherty, who tragically died in a single-vehicle accident late Thursday night on K-143 highway in Saline County. The incident occurred around 10:34 p.m., approximately four miles north of Salina, just west of the intersection with US-81.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP), Doherty was driving a 2000 GMC Sierra pickup truck at a high speed when he lost control of the vehicle. The truck veered off the road, struck a guardrail, and overturned into the north ditch, resulting in a fatal collision. Authorities confirmed that Doherty was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, which may have contributed to the severity of his injuries.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene but were unable to save Doherty, who was pronounced dead shortly after their arrival. The Kansas Highway Patrol has stated that the accident involved only Doherty’s vehicle, and no other individuals were involved.
Investigators are continuing to examine the precise causes of the crash, including road conditions and vehicle maintenance. However, the absence of seatbelt use and the high speed at which Doherty was traveling are believed to be significant factors in the accident.
This tragic event underscores the dangers of speeding and the critical importance of seatbelt use. Seatbelts are one of the most effective safety features in vehicles, greatly reducing the risk of fatal injuries in accidents. Authorities are once again urging drivers to adhere to speed limits and ensure that all passengers are securely buckled up.
The Salina community is left reeling from the sudden loss of a man who was known and loved by many. As they come to terms with this devastating news, further details from the Kansas Highway Patrol are expected in the coming days. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued awareness and education on road safety.
Authorities encourage all drivers to prioritize safety, drive responsibly, and always wear seatbelts to protect themselves and their passengers.