HUTCHINSON, Kan. — One person was killed in a single-vehicle accident in Hutchinson Tuesday evening.
The report from the Kansas Highway Patrol says a 2002 Jeep Liberty was traveling south on Van Buren around 9:30 p.m. when witnesses report the vehicle left the road at 4th and Van Buren and sped across the open field south of the VFW. The Liberty crossed Second Avenue before striking a small building at 635 W. 2nd next to Dan Dee Air. The jeep then burst into flames.
Law enforcement tried to rescue 52-year-old Gary N. Lane of Hutchinson but had to retreat due to smoke and fire. Authorities were not pursuing him. There is no explanation for the driver's actions.
The officers were treated for smoke inhalation but were released. No other injuries were reported.