News Headlines

Construction Worker Struck, Killed On Kansas Highway

Reporter: KAKE News

Sunday, August 5, 2012

The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatality accident between a car and a man who was working road construction.

The accident happened just after 6 a.m. Sunday morning in Topeka on Interstate 470. Investigators say the 41-year-old driver struck a worker who was standing on the side of the road.

The victim died at the scene. He has been identified as Curtis Harlan, 22, of Arma. Officials say he was a contract worker with KNAPP Construction. The driver and two passengers in the car suffered minor injuries.

It took emergency crews more than five hours to clear the scene. The highway has been reopened to traffic but one lane remains closed for pavement repairs.

Kimberly Qualls of Kansas Department of Transportation reminds drivers to be extra cautious in construction zones for the safety of those working on the roads.

"Drivers, the heat is on and our crews are out working hard to improve our highways. Please give our workers plenty of room, be patient, focus on the road and take it slow through the construction work zones," said Qualls.