FRANKLIN COUNTY, Kansas — The families and communities of 18-year-old Auriana K. Davis and 73-year-old Myron B. Wolken are mourning after both were killed in a four-vehicle collision on U.S. 59 north of Richmond Friday night.
According to preliminary information from the Kansas Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred shortly after 9:30 p.m., approximately three miles north of Richmond.
What Happened in the U.S. 59 Crash?
The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that Davis, of Kansas City, Missouri, was driving a 2021 Kia Forte northbound when she attempted to pass a 2014 Chevrolet Cruze and a 2013 Ford Escape.
During the maneuver, the Kia collided head-on with a 2008 Cadillac DTS traveling southbound. The Cadillac was driven by Wolken, of Beloit, Kansas.
Both Davis and Wolken sustained fatal injuries in the collision and were pronounced dead at the scene. Their bodies were transported to Frontier Forensics.
The circumstances described above come from the preliminary crash information and remain subject to further investigation.
Three Others Injured
Three additional people were injured in the four-vehicle collision.
The Chevrolet Cruze was driven by 18-year-old Emma E. Franklin of Uniontown, while 20-year-old Jolee R. Olsen of Lawrence was driving the Ford Escape. Both were transported by emergency medical services to Overland Park Regional Medical Center.
Christian D. Wellbrock, 22, of Victoria, was a passenger in Wolken’s Cadillac and was transported to KU Medical Center.
The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that all five people involved in the crash were properly restrained.
Remembering Auriana K. Davis
Auriana K. Davis was only 18 years old when her life ended in the Franklin County collision.
Her sudden death has left family members, friends and others who knew her facing the difficult reality of losing a young loved one without warning.
Additional information about Davis’s education, career, interests and personal life should be confirmed through her family or other authorized sources before publication.
Remembering Myron B. Wolken
Myron B. Wolken was 73 years old and was from Beloit, Kansas.
His death represents a profound loss for his family, friends and others who shared his life. Those closest to him will now carry forward memories of the years they spent with him.
Further biographical information about Wolken should likewise come from verified family or official sources.
Families and Communities Mourn
The deaths of Davis and Wolken have brought together two families experiencing the same sudden tragedy from very different stages of life.
For their loved ones, the collision is more than a preliminary highway report. It represents the loss of people who were part of families, friendships and communities.
As relatives and friends mourn, they may find comfort in the memories and relationships built throughout Davis’s and Wolken’s lives.
