Fatal Pedestrian Crash Investigation – U.S. 169 Highway
On October 4, 2026, at approximately 10:00 p.m., the Miami County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a 911 call regarding an individual in the roadway on U.S. 169 Highway between Evening Star Road and Pleasant Valley Road.
The reporting party advised dispatchers that the individual was in the middle of the highway and began running toward her vehicle, causing her to back away from him.
While the reporting party was still on the phone with dispatchers, she reported that the individual had been struck by a vehicle. That vehicle turned around and returned to the scene after the collision.
As the first Miami County Sheriff’s Office deputy arrived on scene, the individual was struck by a second vehicle. That vehicle initially continued from the scene but later returned and met with deputies.
Investigators believe a third vehicle may have also struck the individual. That vehicle is believed to be a black Hyundai Tucson with black wheels and was traveling northbound on U.S. 169 Highway directly behind the second vehicle that struck the individual. Based on the circumstances of the collision, investigators believe it is possible the driver of the Hyundai may not realize their vehicle struck the individual.
The vehicle and its driver have not yet been located, and deputies are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying them. Investigators would also like to speak with the driver of the Hyundai to help determine exactly what occurred.
Deputies immediately began administering lifesaving measures until Miami County EMS arrived and took over medical care. The individual was transported to a local area hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
The individual has been identified as Curtis A. Thaxton, 45, of Kansas City, Missouri.
At this time, investigators do not believe foul play was involved in the circumstances surrounding this incident.
U.S. 169 Highway was closed for an extended period of time while deputies investigated the incident and processed the scene. The roadway was reopened at approximately 1:00 a.m. on October 5, 2026.
This incident remains under investigation by the Miami County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Homicide Unit.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has information regarding the black Hyundai Tucson with black wheels, or has other information that may assist investigators is encouraged to contact the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477) or the Miami County Sheriff’s Office at 913-294-3232.
This was a tragic event for everyone involved. The Miami County Sheriff’s Office extends our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Thaxton during this difficult time. We also hope for comfort and support for all those who were involved in or witnessed this tragic incident.
Also assisting at the scene were the Osawatomie Police Department, Osawatomie Fire Department, Kansas Highway Patrol, and Miami County EMS.
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