Olathe Teen Killed in DUI Crash While Assisting Stalled Driver
MERRIAM, KS — Matthew Bray has been charged with DUI in connection with the car crash that killed 17-year-old Benjamin Van Buskirk on October 6, 2023.
Van Buskirk was helping a stalled driver on Interstate 35 near Shawnee Mission Parkway when the collision occurred. Authorities said Bray's vehicle struck Van Buskirk and the disabled vehicle.
Emergency responders from the MERRIAM POLICE DEPARTMENT and JOHNSON COUNTY MEDICAL SERVICES arrived at the scene around 8:15 p.m. Van Buskirk was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the stalled vehicle sustained minor injuries and was treated at a nearby hospital.
In the aftermath of the crash, all northbound lanes of I-35 were closed for approximately three hours as investigators from the KANSAS HIGHWAY PATROL examined the scene. Bray was arrested and faces charges related to DUI and vehicular homicide.
The investigation remains ongoing, according to KHP officials. Bray is scheduled for a court appearance on October 12, 2023.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to contact the MERRIAM POLICE DEPARTMENT.