Franklin Co., KS – Driver Killed in Fiery Semi-Truck Crash on I-35

Franklin County, KS (August 15, 2025) – One person lost their life and another was injured in a semi-truck crash late Thursday morning, August 14, in Franklin County. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the accident occurred just after 10:30 a.m. on Interstate 35, south of Sand Creek Road.

According to investigators, a 2023 Freightliner semi driven by 29-year-old Zachary Williams of Liberty, Tennessee, was traveling north in the outside lane when it drifted into the inside lane, crossed the grassy median, and entered the southbound lanes. The truck then struck a southbound 2020 Freightliner semi driven by 52-year-old Thomas Romero of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The force of the collision sent the 2023 semi into the west ditch, where it became fully engulfed in flames. Williams was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Forensic Medical. Romero was taken by EMS to the University of Kansas Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. 

No further details have been released, and the Kansas Highway Patrol continues to investigate the cause of the accident. 

Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the victim, and we wish the injured driver a full recovery.

Truck Accidents in Kansas

Collisions involving large commercial trucks, such as the tragic semi-truck crash on Interstate 35, are among the most dangerous accidents on Kansas roadways. Due to their size and weight, semi-trucks can cause catastrophic damage in the event of a collision, particularly when traveling at highway speeds.

Truck accidents can result from a variety of factors, including:

• Driver fatigue or distraction. Long hours behind the wheel can cause drowsiness, and distractions like cellphones or in-cab devices can take a driver’s attention off the road.
• Mechanical failure or poor vehicle maintenance. Faulty brakes, worn tires, or other neglected repairs can cause a driver to lose control of a large truck.
• Unsafe lane changes or drifting into oncoming lanes. Large trucks require more space to maneuver, and a single mistake when changing lanes can lead to devastating collisions.
• Adverse weather or road conditions. Rain, snow, ice, or uneven pavement can make it difficult for truck drivers to maintain control, especially at high speeds.

In crashes involving multiple commercial vehicles, the risk of severe injury or death increases dramatically. Victims and their families may be entitled to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and, in fatal cases, funeral costs and loss of companionship. 

Working with an experienced truck accident attorney is crucial to navigating the legal complexities of these cases, especially when multiple parties or companies may be involved.

Trucking companies and drivers are held to strict federal and state safety regulations. When these standards are ignored or violated, the consequences can be devastating. Legal action not only helps victims recover damages but also promotes accountability and safer practices within the trucking industry.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious truck accident, our team is ready to help. At Wallentine Injury Law, we are committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve. 

Call Wallentine Injury Law today at 913-934-6333 for a free consultation. We will listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for justice on your behalf.

Notes: Our writers utilized secondary sources when writing this news article about an accident. We have not independently reviewed all of the circumstances surrounding this accident; therefore, please get in touch with Martin & Wallentine, LLC right away if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will update the post with the most accurate information currently available.  A post will be removed upon request.

Disclaimer: We hope that by raising awareness about driving hazards, drivers will be more cautious when operating a motor vehicle and avoid being seriously injured in a collision. This accident news post is not a business solicitation. The content of this post is not intended to serve as medical or legal advice. This post’s featured image was not captured at the accident scene depicted in the post.