In Loving Memory of Gary Stoll

In Loving Memory of Gary Stoll

THOMAS COUNTY, Kan. — A tragic chain-reaction crash along Interstate 70 on Tuesday afternoon claimed the life of 75-year-old Gary Stoll of Oakley, Kansas, leaving his family, friends, and community in mourning.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the multi-vehicle accident occurred around 1:15 p.m. near milepost 66 in Thomas County. Authorities say blowing dust swept across the interstate from south to north, creating near-zero visibility and setting the stage for a devastating sequence of events.

Investigators report that a 2025 Volvo Power Unit tractor was traveling eastbound in the right lane of I-70 when it entered the sudden dust storm. With visibility reduced to almost nothing, the driver slowed the vehicle. A 2023 Toyota Highlander traveling behind the tractor was unable to stop in time and collided with the rear of the trailer. The tractor continued on to the J&J Truck Stop, while the Highlander remained stopped in the right lane of travel.

Moments later, a 2023 Freightliner approached from behind. Its onboard forward crash detection system activated and brought the semi-truck to a stop before it could collide with another disabled vehicle that had been involved in a separate incident in the roadway.

Behind the Freightliner was a 2024 Ford Explorer driven by Gary Stoll. In the dangerous and blinding conditions, the Explorer struck the rear of the semi-trailer. The force of the impact redirected the SUV northward into the median, where it came to rest facing south. Gary Stoll suffered fatal injuries in the crash.

As the dust storm continued to impair visibility, a fifth vehicle — a 2026 Acura MDX — struck the rear of the trailer as well. The collision damaged the trailer’s rear-end protection system and caused the SUV to underride the trailer. The four occupants inside the MDX sustained injuries ranging from minor to serious, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

While the sequence of collisions underscores the unpredictable danger of blowing dust on open highways, the loss of Gary Stoll is what weighs heaviest on the hearts of those who knew him.

Gary was more than a name in a report. At 75 years old, he carried with him a lifetime of experiences, relationships, and quiet contributions to his community in Oakley. Friends and neighbors remember him as a steady presence — someone who valued hard work, family ties, and the simple joys of everyday life. Whether sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or offering a warm greeting, Gary made those around him feel seen and appreciated.

Highway tragedies happen in seconds, but their impact lasts forever. The sudden dust storm that swept across I-70 serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly conditions can change across the Kansas plains. For Gary’s loved ones, however, the focus is not on the storm, but on the cherished memories he leaves behind — the laughter shared at family gatherings, the wisdom offered to younger generations, and the steady love that defined his life.

As the investigation continues, the Thomas County community stands in solidarity with Gary Stoll’s family. Prayers, condolences, and support flow toward those grieving a father, grandfather, friend, and neighbor.

Though his journey ended too soon on a windswept stretch of interstate, Gary Stoll’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched. May he be remembered for the kindness he showed, the strength he carried, and the love he gave so freely.

May he rest in peace.