Norton Co. KS – Young Man Loses Life in U.S. 36 Crash Near U.S. 283

Norton Co, KS (July 6, 2025) – An accident claimed one life and left multiple people injured in Norton County on the afternoon of July 4. Reports from the Kansas Highway Patrol show that the incident unfolded just before 3 p.m. along U.S. Highway 36, about eight and a half miles west of U.S. Highway 283.

Based on early reports, 21-year-old Darian W. Marston from McCook, Nebraska, was behind the wheel of a 2009 Pontiac G6 traveling east on U.S. Highway 36 when the car began to hydroplane due to slick road conditions. The Pontiac veered into the westbound lane and struck a 2025 Honda Odyssey driven by 50-year-old David A. Chappell of Augusta, Kansas, resulting in a head-on collision.

Marston tragically died at the scene and was later taken to Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home. His passenger, Lily Sheldon, was initially treated at Norton County Hospital before being moved to Good Samaritan in Kearney, Nebraska, for more specialized care.

David Chappell and three passengers in the Honda, 79-year-old Dixie Labreau of Maize, an 11-year-old boy, also of Augusta, and 45-year-old Lynn N. Chappell of Augusta, were all transported by EMS to Norton County Hospital for medical attention. The Kansas Highway Patrol confirmed that Marston had not been wearing a seat belt when the crash happened. The investigation into this collision is still underway, and authorities have not provided an update on Sheldon’s current condition.

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the family of Darian W. Marston. Wealso  hope everyone injured in this crash recovers fully and finds the support they need during this time.

Car Accidents in Kansas

Each year, Kansas sees its share of serious car accidents, with many involving dangerous weather conditions that can lead to hydroplaning or losing control of a vehicle. According to recent data, thousands of drivers and passengers are hurt or killed on Kansas roads annually. Staying alert and practicing safe driving habits is vital, but when accidents occur, it’s important for victims and their families to know their rights and options.

When a serious crash happens, it’s helpful to understand some common contributing factors. Here are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

• Hydroplaning and Wet Road Hazards: Wet roads can quickly turn deadly when drivers lose traction. Hydroplaning happens when a thin layer of water builds between tires and the road, making steering nearly impossible. Reducing speed during rain and ensuring tires are properly maintained can lower these risks.
• Head-On Collisions: Head-on crashes are among the most dangerous types of car accidents. They often result in severe injuries or loss of life due to the extreme force involved. Paying close attention to weather advisories and road conditions can help drivers avoid these tragic outcomes.
• Seat Belt Usage: Wearing a seat belt remains one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent serious injuries in a crash. Kansas law requires seat belt use, and studies show buckling up greatly increases the chance of survival in an accident.
• Emergency Medical Response: Immediate medical care after a collision is crucial. Quick transportation to local hospitals gives victims the best chance at recovery, and thorough medical records can support any potential claims later on.
• Ongoing Investigations: Law enforcement agencies work diligently to determine the cause of serious collisions. These investigations often help families and injured victims understand exactly what happened and who may be responsible.

After an accident, it’s important for victims to speak with a trusted legal professional. Call our wrongful death attorney if you or a loved one has been injured in a crash like this. Taking action as soon as possible can make a significant difference in your ability to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Our Kansas car accident attorneys are prepared to stand by your side and fight for your best interests every step of the way.

At Wallentine Injury Law, we know how challenging life can become after a serious car accident. Our team is here to listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options in plain language. We believe you should never feel alone in the fight for fair compensation. That’s why we offer free consultations to all crash victims and their families.

We’re ready to help you gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and seek the recovery you need to move forward. Call our dedicated Kansas car accident attorneys today at 913-934-6333. Let our team at Wallentine Injury Law handle the legal work so you can focus on healing.

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 Wallentine Injury Law, 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.