Dickinson County, Kansas – An 80‑year‑old resident of rural Solomon was killed Wednesday evening after a vehicle collision on Solomon Road. Kansas Highway Patrol identified the victim as Katherine Worthen, who was retrieving mail from her mailbox at the end of her driveway.
Details of the crash
According to the KHP report, Worthen had parked her 2024 Nissan Rogue in the northbound lane of Solomon Road, facing south. She stepped out of the SUV to collect her mail when a 2013 Honda Civic, driven by a 47‑year‑old woman from Clay Center, approached from the south traveling north.
The Civic swerved to the right, striking both the stationary Nissan Rogue and Worthen. The impact sent the Civic into an east‑side ditch. The driver of the Honda Civic was transported to a local hospital with a suspected minor injury. A passenger in the Nissan Rogue was not injured.
Investigation and response
Kansas Highway Patrol investigators are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the crash. The report notes that the collision occurred a little before 6 p.m. on Wednesday. No further details about road conditions or visibility were released at this time.
Local authorities have reminded residents to exercise caution when retrieving mail or performing other tasks near roadways, especially on rural routes where traffic may travel at higher speeds.
Community impact
The loss of Katherine Worthen has resonated throughout the Solomon community, a tight‑knit area where neighbors often rely on one another for support. Friends and family are expected to gather for a memorial service in the coming days, though specific arrangements have not yet been announced.
Residents are encouraged to report any additional information about the incident to the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office or the Kansas Highway Patrol.
Original reporting: KWCH 12 (Gray) – local — read the source article.
