Multi-Vehicle Wreck with Injuries on I-35 Near Old U-56 Hwy in Merriam, KS

Merriam, KS (December 29, 2025) – On Sunday evening, December 28, emergency crews responded to the scene of a Merriam car accident on Interstate 35 that left multiple people hurt.

Reports from the Kansas Highway Patrol show that a 2018 Tesla Model S driven by 20-year-old Jaiden Schulz of La Cygne was being pursued by law enforcement on the northbound side of the interstate when it slammed into the back of a 2017 Ford Escape.

That impact caused the Ford to lose control, strike a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and then veer across lanes into a 2024 GMC Sierra pickup near mile marker 217.2, just 0.4 miles north of Old U-56 Highway in Johnson County.

The Ford was driven by 36-year-old Hilary Cole of Kansas City, Kansas, who reported pain at the scene. The GMC had four occupants, all of whom suffered suspected undisclosed injuries and were treated at the scene. One victim, identified as 54-year-old John Eickhoff of Kansas City, Kansas, was transported to Overland Park Regional Medical Center for further treatment and evaluation.

Tow trucks removed all four damaged vehicles from the highway. Authorities have not stated whether the fleeing driver will face charges, but investigations are ongoing.

We hope all injured individuals in this crash recover quickly. Our thoughts are with them at this time.

Car Accidents in Kansas

Every year, countless people are hurt in collisions across Kansas. A Merriam car accident can leave victims struggling with pain, medical bills, and uncertainty about the future. These cases often involve complex issues like proving fault, dealing with insurance tactics, or calculating the full extent of damages. For many, these injuries include neck injuries or spinal cord injuries that disrupt daily life and require ongoing treatment. Victims may be entitled to compensation for various losses, including:

• Their physical and emotional pain and suffering
• Medical expenses and long-term care costs
• The costs to repair or replace their vehicles
• The loss of consortium
• And more

For those injured in a Merriam car accident, meeting with a trusted attorney is a critical first step. A consultation gives you clarity on whether your case is viable and what your options are going forward. It also helps protect you from common mistakes that could reduce your settlement.

Why Schedule a Consultation After a Merriam Car Accident

After any injury crash, time is crucial. A free consultation offers immediate value, especially when you’re uncertain about what comes next. Many people aren’t aware of how much their case is really worth or that the insurance company is likely working to minimize their payout. Having a knowledgeable car accident attorney in your corner can help level the playing field and prevent you from being pressured into a lowball offer.

At Wallentine Injury Law, we take pride in putting our clients first. We’ll explain your rights, help gather evidence, and answer every question. There’s no cost to meet with us, and we don’t get paid unless you do. That’s how we ensure you’re not alone in this process.

What To Bring To Your Free Consultation

To make the most of your initial meeting, it’s important to bring:

• Accident Report: The crash report helps establish key details and provides insight into who may be at fault.
• Medical Documents: Records from doctors, hospitals, and urgent care facilities are essential for showing how you were affected.
• Photos or Videos: Visual evidence from the scene, your injuries, and the vehicles involved can strengthen your case.
• Insurance Information: Bring any letters, emails, or claims filed with your insurance or the other party’s insurer.
• Proof of Lost Wages: If you missed work, your pay stubs or employer notes help determine financial loss.
• Any Questions You Have: No concern is too small. This meeting is your opportunity to get informed and supported.

Call a Kansas Car Accident Attorney Today

If you were injured in a Merriam car accident, don’t try to handle the aftermath on your own. Call Wallentine Injury Law, where we put people before profits. Led by attorney Jerry Wallentine, our firm is devoted entirely to personal injury cases. We’ve helped clients secure millions, including multiple seven-figure settlements. Jerry has a proven record in trial, mediation, and negotiation. We take the time to listen, explain the process clearly, and build strong cases from day one.

Our approach is aggressive when it comes to pursuing your best outcome, but always respectful in communication. We’re deeply familiar with how insurance companies operate and won’t let them take advantage of you. If you need an honest assessment of your situation, we’re ready to provide it at no charge. Call 913-934-6333 today. With us, you’ll get guidance, attention, and fierce representation. When it comes to your recovery, You Need Jerry.

Notes: This article was written using available secondary sources regarding the reported accident. We have not independently verified every detail. If you notice any incorrect information, please contact Wallentine Injury Law right away so we can make prompt updates with the most accurate details available. We will also remove this post upon request.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to promote awareness of roadway dangers and encourage safer driving to help prevent serious injuries. This accident news article is not intended as a business solicitation, nor should it be taken as medical or legal guidance. The image used in this post does not depict the actual accident scene.