Three Girl Scouts Killed in 2022 Crash; Parents Sue Kansas Turnpike Authority
Aug. 11, 2026, 4:07 a.m. CT
TOPEKA, Kan. — Parents of three Girl Scouts fatally injured in an October 2022 turnpike crash have filed a lawsuit against the Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA).
The lawsuit alleges the KTA failed to evaluate its crossovers prior to the incident where the girls, Kylie Lunn, 9; Laila El Azri Ennassari, 9; and Brooklyn Peery, 8, were killed. According to a KTA deposition, 16 illegal U-turns were recorded at the crash site during a single week in June 2023, prompting the installation of delineator posts at six crossovers in early 2024 as a deterrent against such maneuvers.
Amber Peery, the girls' mother, had attempted an illegal U-turn through a crossover site before being struck by a semi-trailer. She was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and is serving a sentence at Topeka Correctional Facility. Authorities indicated that the crossovers are legally restricted for use by emergency vehicles only.
The KTA contends it is “immune from liability” due to Kansas statute. In June, the authority sought a ruling in its favor without trial in response to the lawsuit, which remains pending.
Witness testimony revealed that KTA did not conduct evaluations of crossover usage prior to the crash, raising questions about safety assessments in the area. Further analysis noted that one to two U-turns occurred daily at the crossovers, linking to increased risks for motorists.
The ongoing case includes several defendants, while some entities, including car manufacturers, have been dropped following previous settlements.
For further updates, contact Tim Hrenchir at 785-213-5934 or tim.hrenchir@cjonline.com.