News Summary

A devastating head-on collision on U.S. 169 in Greeley, Kansas, on May 4, 2025, resulted in the deaths of eight individuals, including two high school students. The community is mourning the loss as investigations continue into the cause of the tragic event, which left families and friends deeply affected. Support teams have been activated in local schools to help cope with the grief.

Tragic Collision in Greeley Claims Eight Lives

Greeley, Kansas – A heartbreaking accident unfolded on Sunday evening, May 4, 2025, when a head-on collision on U.S. 169 resulted in the loss of eight lives, including two promising high school students from Oklahoma. The crash took place around 5:45 p.m., about 60 miles southwest of Kansas City, Missouri, and left the local community and beyond in deep sorrow.

The Details of the Crash

Initial reports indicate that two vehicles collided with significant force, causing both to burst into flames. The chaos on the highway was overwhelming, and authorities were quick to respond to the scene. Tragically, eight individuals lost their lives in the crash, leaving behind friends, family, and a grieving community.

Among those killed were Donald “DJ” Laster and Kyrin Schumpert, both just 14 years old and students at nearby schools in Tulsa. DJ was known to be a dedicated student-athlete, having made the varsity basketball team as a freshman at Booker T. Washington High School. Kyrin was a freshman at Union High School Freshman Academy.

Remembering Those Who Were Lost

Sadly, the crash also claimed the lives of well-respected members of the community. Wayne Walls, 41, a former teacher and coach at Carver Middle School, and Ja’mon Gilstrap, a proud member of the transportation team for Tulsa Public Schools, were among the deceased. Their contributions to the growth and development of young lives in the area will not be forgotten.

The two vehicles involved were a 2016 GMC Yukon and a 2016 Subaru Legacy. The Yukon was driven by Jamison Gilstrap, 33, of Tulsa, who also passed away in the crash. His passengers included Kyron Gilstrap, 14, Donald Laster, and Wayne Walls. Reports confirm that all these individuals were wearing their seat belts at the time of the collision.

The Subaru Legacy was driven by Alexander Ernst, 37, of Ames, Iowa, who lost his life along with three additional passengers: John Elliott, 76, Madalyn Elliott, and Norleen Elliott, all from Chesterfield, MO. Reports indicate that they, too, had their seat belts fastened.

Investigation and Community Response

The aftermath of the crash left the site closed for approximately four hours while authorities conducted their investigations. The cause of the collision remains under investigation by Kansas authorities, and the community awaits answers while processing the tragedy.

The impact of this devastating event has reached deep into the Tulsa community. The Tulsa Public Schools district acknowledged the loss and expressed their commitment to honoring the memories of those who died. They activated support teams to help students and staff cope with the grief and provide much-needed counseling.

If that’s not enough, the Union Public Schools superintendent followed suit, ensuring that their own teams of grief counselors and support staff were made available for students and staff feeling the effects of this tragic event.

Sporting Connections and Ongoing Support

DJ and Kyrin shared not only their age and aspirations but also a bond through sports; both were part of the Oklahoma Chaos basketball team. This connection further highlights how close-knit the community is, bringing people together during such difficult times.

The outpouring of support for the grieving families has led to multiple events being planned in Tulsa, aimed at providing comfort to those affected. In moments of tragedy, the community often comes together, demonstrating resilience and compassion in ways that uplift those in need.

As friends, family, and the entire community navigate this tragic chapter, the memories of those lost will live on in the hearts of many.

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