WABAUNSEE COUNTY, Kan. — A tragic crash on Interstate 70 Friday afternoon claimed the lives of Barbara Krier, 70, of Great Bend, and her son, Steven Reed, 50, of Topeka, leaving family members, friends, and communities across Kansas mourning a devastating loss.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the collision occurred shortly before 4:00 p.m. near mile marker 330.7, approximately 1.2 miles west of Spring Creek Road in Wabaunsee County.

Investigators reported that a Kenworth construction truck, driven by Jason Webb, 45, of Cheboygan, Michigan, was traveling eastbound on Interstate 70 when, for reasons that remain under investigation, the vehicle crossed the center median and entered the westbound lanes of traffic.

The truck then collided head-on with a Buick Envision carrying Barbara Krier, her son Steven Reed, and a 7-year-old child.

Authorities confirmed that both Krier and Reed suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene.

The child, who was seated in the rear of the vehicle, survived the crash but sustained suspected serious injuries. Emergency responders transported the child to a hospital in Kansas City for treatment. The truck driver was also hospitalized in Topeka with suspected minor injuries.

The loss of a mother and son in the same tragic incident has left loved ones struggling to cope with overwhelming grief. Family members are not only mourning the deaths of Barbara Krier and Steven Reed but are also praying for the recovery of the young child who survived the crash.

As news of the tragedy spread, tributes and messages of sympathy began pouring in from friends, relatives, and community members. Those who knew Krier and Reed describe them as beloved family members whose lives were defined by the relationships they shared and the impact they made on those around them.

While loved ones focus on honoring their memories, investigators continue working to determine what caused the construction truck to cross the median and enter oncoming traffic. The Kansas Highway Patrol has stated that the crash remains under active investigation, and additional details may be released as the inquiry continues.

The deaths of Barbara Krier and Steven Reed serve as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can be changed by tragedy. Their memories will live on in the hearts of family, friends, and all who knew and loved them.

Funeral arrangements and memorial service details have not yet been publicly announced.

Barbara Krier and Steven Reed will be remembered with love, gratitude, and sorrow by all whose lives they touched. May they rest in peace.