Madalyn Elliott Chesterfield MO Death and Obituary – A horrific head-on collision occurred on U.S. Highway 169 in Franklin County, Kansas, on Sunday, May 4th, 2025, just before 5:45 p.m. The crash, which claimed the lives of eight individuals, marks one of the deadliest accidents in the area in recent memory. The Kansas Highway Patrol has released the names of the victims involved, shedding light on the devastating loss for multiple communities.
The crash took place near Virginia Road when a southbound GMC Yukon, driven by 33-year-old Jaimon Gilstrap of Tulsa, Oklahoma, attempted to pass a slower-moving vehicle. In doing so, the Yukon collided head-on with a northbound 2016 Subaru Legacy. The impact was catastrophic, causing both vehicles to be engulfed in flames almost instantly, making survival unlikely for anyone involved.
The GMC Yukon was carrying a group of individuals returning to Tulsa after attending a youth basketball event. Tragically, Jaimon Gilstrap was killed at the scene, along with three of his passengers: 14-year-old Kyron Gilstrap, 14-year-old Donald Laster, and 41-year-old Wayne Walls. These four individuals were deeply connected to the youth basketball team, with Wayne Walls also serving as a coach. The tragedy has left a significant void in both the family and the wider community. Another passenger, a 15-year-old from Talala, Oklahoma, was critically injured and was taken to a local hospital. Their condition remains serious, though further updates are yet to be provided.
The other vehicle involved, the 2016 Subaru Legacy, was driven by 37-year-old Alexander Ernst from Ames, Iowa, and carried three other passengers: 76-year-old John Elliott, 69-year-old Norleen Elliott, and 33-year-old Madalyn Elliott, all from Chesterfield, Missouri. Tragically, all four members of the Elliott family perished in the crash. The Elliott family’s loss has had a profound impact on their community, where they were known for their deep involvement in local events and organizations.
Witnesses to the crash site described a harrowing scene, with both vehicles fully engulfed in flames as emergency responders rushed to the scene. The intense fire made it nearly impossible for anyone to survive the crash. The Kansas Highway Patrol is still working to determine the exact cause of the incident, though it appears the attempted passing maneuver by the driver of the GMC Yukon may have played a significant role in the fatal collision.
The Gilstrap and Laster families are devastated by the loss of their children, and the community is rallying around them, as well as the family of the injured teenager, offering support and prayers for a speedy recovery. The tragic loss of Coach Wayne Walls, who had mentored and coached countless young athletes, has left a lasting emotional impact on the youth basketball community.
In Chesterfield, Missouri, the unexpected deaths of Alexander Ernst and the Elliott family members have deeply shaken their community. Alexander Ernst, a well-known figure in Ames, Iowa, and his family, known for their kindness and community spirit, will be remembered by all who knew them.
In the aftermath of the crash, memorials and fundraisers have been planned to honor the lives of the victims. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover funeral costs and provide financial assistance to the grieving families, particularly the surviving 15-year-old from Talala.
The loss of these eight individuals serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing time with loved ones. As communities in Tulsa, Chesterfield, and beyond mourn, their collective grief highlights the far-reaching impact of this tragic event. The memory of those lost will live on in the hearts of their families, friends, and communities for years to come.
The post Madalyn Elliott Chesterfield MO Death: Jaimon Gilstrap of Tulsa, Kyron Gilstrap, Donald Laster and Wayne Walls Dies in U.S. 169 Accident first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
