Late-Night Rescue Attempt Ends in Serious Injury Near Lightville and Armstrong Roads

On June 11 at 11:30 pm, the Saline County Sheriff's Office was alerted to a suspicious vehicle near Lightville and Armstrong roads. A deputy responded and found a white 2008 Dodge 2500 pickup stuck in a ditch on Lightville Road. The vehicle was occupied by two males, a 36-year-old driver and a 43-year-old passenger, who explained they were heading to Culver but got lost and ended up in the ditch while attempting to turn around.

The occupants stated they had called a friend from Salina to help retrieve the stuck truck. The friend, a 53-year-old male, arrived in a Dodge 1500 pickup. Using a tow strap, the two trucks attempted to free the Dodge 2500 by going back and forth. During the process, the 2500 truck became further embedded in the ditch.

The 43-year-old passenger, who was outside watching the operation, got too close to the trucks. In an attempt to get out of the way, he fell into the ditch and was accidentally run over by the Dodge 2500. The towing efforts were immediately halted.

The individuals on the scene found the injured man climbing out of the ditch on his own. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were called and they determined that the man had suffered serious injuries, including a major spinal injury, lower back, and shoulder injuries. He was transported to Salina Regional Health Center, where he remains with serious injuries.