One person is dead and two others are in critical condition following a fiery crash Friday in southeast Kansas City.
The collision occurred around 7:15 p.m. on U.S. Highway 71 near the intersection of Blue Ridge Boulevard. Authorities reported that two vehicles were involved in the crash, which resulted in one vehicle catching fire.
Emergency responders from the Kansas City Fire Department arrived on scene to extinguish the flames and provide medical aid. Two adults, ages 34 and 29, were transported to a local hospital in critical condition, while one individual, age 45, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities closed multiple lanes of U.S. Highway 71 in both directions to allow for emergency operations and an investigation into the cause of the crash. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is leading the investigation, with assistance from local law enforcement.
No further details about the identities of the victims have been released pending notification of next of kin. More information will be provided as it becomes available.