Manhattan man flown to Topeka hospital after severe crash

MANHATTAN, Kan. (WIBW) - A Manhattan man was flown to a Topeka hospital after a severe crash over the Thanksgiving weekend.

The Riley Co. Police Department Activity Report that around 11:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 24, emergency crews were called to the intersection of Seth Child Rd. and Anderson Ave. in Manhattan with reports of an injury crash.

When officials arrived, they said they found Jose Orona, 25, of Manhattan, had been driving his 2007 Mitsubishi Eclipse when he collided with 21-year-old Sabrina Reyes’ 2006 Toyota Highlander.

According to RCPD, Orona had been headed north on Seth Child in the inside lane and had crossed into the outside lane, rear-ending Reyes. The collision caused Reyes to veer right, hit a guard rail and roll several times. Her vehicle came to a stop upside down on an embankment near the shoulder.

RCPD noted that the collision also caused Orona to lose control of his car. He spun several times and came to a stop in the southbound lanes.

Both drivers were taken to Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan with injuries, however, Orona was later life-flighted to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka. Officials said he had a severe head laceration and dislocated hip. He is expected to recover.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.