Overland Park, KS – 68-Year-Old Dump Truck Driver Killed in Crash on K7 Hwy

Overland Park, KS (August 6, 2025) – A fatal crash occurred Monday morning, August 4, on the northbound side of K7 Highway, just south of College Boulevard, claiming the life of a 68-year-old Osawatomie man.

According to reports from the Kansas Highway Patrol, the incident occurred at around 8:39 a.m. when a 2004 Sterling dump truck was heading north in lane two. At the same time, a 2014 Ford F-350 was traveling in lane one. For reasons that remain unknown, the dump truck drifted into the adjacent lane, hitting the trailer attached to the F-350.

The impact caused the dump truck to veer sharply to the right, where it left the roadway and overturned in the ditch. Emergency responders arrived quickly at the crash site, but unfortunately, the dump truck’s driver, Leslie L. Kendig, was pronounced dead at the scene. He was transported to the Johnson County Medical Examiner’s Office. Kendig was a resident of Osawatomie, Kansas.

The driver of the F-350, identified as 52-year-old Patrick E. Clement of Lane, Kansas, did not suffer any reported injuries and remained at the scene to cooperate with the investigation.

K7 Highway was partially restricted as law enforcement officers with unit K93 conducted their investigation and cleared the scene. No other vehicles were involved in the crash. Authorities have not yet determined what caused the initial lane drift, and the incident remains under active review.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Leslie Kendig during this difficult time.

Truck Accidents in Kansas

Truck-related accidents in Kansas often lead to tragic consequences, especially when involving large commercial vehicles like dump trucks. In 2023, Kansas saw more than 3,000 crashes involving large trucks, many of which resulted in life-altering injuries or fatalities. These incidents frequently occur on major highways and rural roads, where high speeds and heavy loads amplify risks.

Here are a few key points that can help explain the dangers and impacts of truck-related accidents:

• Size and Weight of Trucks: Trucks like dump trucks and semis are significantly heavier than standard vehicles. This weight difference creates intense impact forces during a collision, often leading to catastrophic outcomes for those involved.
• Driver Fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel contribute to decreased alertness. Fatigued truck drivers may unintentionally drift into other lanes or react slowly to roadway hazards.
• Road Conditions and Design: Narrow shoulders, uneven pavement, or sharp curves can make it harder for truck drivers to maintain control, especially when sudden maneuvers are involved.
• Maintenance Failures: Trucks require routine inspections and maintenance. Tire blowouts, brake failure, and steering issues are all potential causes of crashes if not addressed promptly.
• Blind Spots: Large trucks have substantial blind spots, especially on the sides and rear. These zones increase the risk of sideswipe or merging accidents with other vehicles.

After any crash involving a commercial vehicle, it is vital to take action as soon as possible. If you have lost a loved one in a truck-related collision, reach out to a trusted wrongful death attorney to understand your legal rights. A skilled attorney can help investigate the cause, preserve evidence, and ensure all liable parties are held accountable. Early involvement can make a difference in securing fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

At Wallentine Injury Law, we understand the serious impact a fatal crash has on families. We offer compassionate, client-centered support to help ease the burden after a tragic loss. Our team is led by an experienced trial attorney who knows how to build strong cases and fight for the justice your loved one deserves. Every case is handled with care and determination, from the first phone call to the final resolution. Let us walk you through your legal options and answer all your questions. Contact Wallentine Injury Law at 913-934-6333 for a free consultation. You don’t have to face this process alone. We’re here when it matters most.

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.