Newly released dispatch audio from an incident at a Kansas soccer field reveals the intense moments as first responders rushed to the scene. The event in question occurred on Saturday, when a driver allegedly drove into children and spectators at the Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita.
Dispatchers classified the event as a ‘mass-casualty incident’ (MCI). The collision tragically resulted in the deaths of Cole Adrian, 6, and Nicholas Schafer, 35, both from McPherson.
In addition to the fatalities, 10 others were injured, including five children.
Police reported that the 34-year-old woman driving the pickup truck was released with no charges. There is currently no information on potential upcoming charges. Officials took the driver into custody initially but released her pending results from toxicology tests and a vehicle examination.
The driver had her two children in the vehicle at the time, with one playing soccer at the complex on a different field. Investigators interviewed the driver, as well as over 30 witnesses, including her children who were present during the crash. Consultations with the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office preceded her release.
A detailed 30-minute log of dispatch communications outlines the emergency response:
- Responders reported 11 patients, two described as ‘working blues,’ indicating critical conditions.
- Among the reported patients were 9 victims, including ‘two code blacks’ and ‘two code blues.’
- The dispatch recounted a 5-year-old victim suffering multi-system trauma who exhibited full responsiveness with a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15.
- Over 30 minutes in, one responder noted discovering ‘another victim in the middle of the field.’
The City of Wichita confirmed plans to install temporary barriers around the Stryker Sports Complex. They will assess security and police presence alongside local mental health professionals to support families affected by the event.
McPherson Mayor Jim Loving expressed solidarity with grieving families, stating, ‘To the injured and their families: we are praying for your recovery. Thank you to the bystanders who stepped in before the first ambulance arrived.’
Wichita Police continue their investigation and have promised updates as available.