Connie Gould, Shelby Copp Death News – A tragic crash in northeast Kansas on Sunday evening claimed the lives of two people and left several others hospitalized, according to authorities. The accident occurred shortly after 8:30 p.m. along US Highway 24 at K-237, just south of Perry Lake in Jefferson County.
The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that the crash involved multiple vehicles and resulted in fatalities on the scene. 33-year-old Shelby Copp of Oskaloosa was driving a Hyundai Kona SUV southbound on K-237 with two young passengers, girls aged six and eight. According to troopers, Copp failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection, entering the path of a Chevy Suburban towing a boat, which was driven by a couple from Topeka.
The Suburban struck the passenger side of the Hyundai, causing significant damage. During the collision, the boat trailer being towed by the Suburban detached and collided with a third vehicle that happened to be nearby. Thankfully, two teenagers who were in the vehicle struck by the trailer escaped without injuries.
Authorities confirmed that Copp and 66-year-old Connie Gould, a passenger in the Suburban, were pronounced dead at the scene. Their sudden deaths underscore the severity of the crash and the dangers of failing to yield at stop signs.
The two young girls in Copp’s Hyundai were seriously injured in the collision and were immediately transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Likewise, the driver of the Suburban sustained injuries and was hospitalized in serious condition. Officials have not released updates on their current status but described their condition as critical at the time of transport.
The incident has prompted a thorough investigation by the Kansas Highway Patrol. Troopers are examining factors such as vehicle speeds, visibility at the intersection, and any possible mechanical issues. Early reports indicate that failure to stop at the stop sign was a major factor in initiating the crash, though investigators continue to review evidence and interview witnesses.
Residents in the area expressed shock at the violent nature of the accident. Perry Lake and its surrounding highways are known for moderate traffic, but intersections like K-237 can become dangerous when drivers do not adhere to traffic signals. This crash highlights the risks posed to both vehicle occupants and bystanders when traffic laws are ignored.
Authorities have urged drivers in the region to remain vigilant, especially near intersections and areas with frequent recreational traffic, such as boat trailers. Safety advocates stress the importance of obeying stop signs and ensuring that intersections are clear before proceeding, particularly when towing large vehicles or trailers.
The loss of life in this crash is devastating for the families and communities of those involved. As investigators continue to piece together the events that led to the collision, the Kansas Highway Patrol is asking anyone who witnessed the crash or may have information to come forward.
The accident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can be changed in moments of inattention or misjudgment on the road. Authorities continue to monitor the recovery of the injured and work to understand the full circumstances surrounding the deadly collision.
