Apr 15, 2026

Driver hospitalized after semi rear-ended a semi on I-70

Posted Apr 15, 2026 1:00 AM

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Tuesday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Kenworth semi driven by  Charles David Dale Lapee, 58, Excelsior Springs, Missouri, was westbound on Interstate 70 near the Kansas 14 exit. The semi rear-ended a 2022 Freightliner semi driven by Acumen Franklyn Johnson, 32, Orlando, Florida, slowed in the left lane for a vehicle on fire on the right shoulder.  After impact the Kenworth overturned.

EMS transported Lapee to Wesley Medical Center. Johnson was not injured. Lapee was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.