Montgomery County, KS — A tragic crash in southeastern Kansas claimed the life of a 22-year-old motorcyclist on Monday afternoon, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol. The fatal collision occurred around 3:57 p.m. near 2205 County Road 4300, just north of Morning Lane Road and about a mile northwest of Coffeyville.
Authorities say the crash involved a 2012 Freightliner semitrailer and a 1998 Honda V75 motorcycle. The semi-truck, driven by 38-year-old Derek A. Taggart of Altamont, was heading south on County Road 4300 and attempting to make a left turn into a private driveway. As Taggart turned, his vehicle collided with the oncoming motorcycle, which was traveling north on the same road.
The motorcyclist was identified as Wyatt T. Johnson, a 22-year-old resident of Coffeyville. Johnson sustained critical injuries in the crash and was transported by emergency responders to Coffeyville Regional Medical Center. Despite efforts to save him, he was later pronounced dead. Officials also noted that Johnson was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
Taggart, the driver of the semitrailer, was not injured. He was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and was the only person inside the truck. Authorities have not indicated whether any citations or charges are pending as the investigation into the crash continues.
The Kansas Highway Patrol is still working to determine what factors may have contributed to the collision. Investigators are examining the scene and collecting witness statements to better understand how the incident unfolded. At this time, no additional information has been released.
This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks motorcyclists face on rural roads and the importance of wearing protective gear. As friends and family mourn the loss of Wyatt Johnson, local residents are once again urged to drive with caution and remain alert—especially when sharing the road with motorcycles, which can be difficult to see in certain traffic conditions.