Young Man Killed in Early Morning Rollover Crash in Ellis County

A fatal single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning claimed the life of a 20-year-old man from Sharon Springs, according to information released by authorities.

The crash occurred at approximately 4 a.m. on December 14 in Ellis County, along Old Highway 40 near Spring Hill Road, about 0.4 miles west of the Old 40 and Pfeifer area. The incident was investigated by the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Authorities reported that a 2008 Ford F-250 pickup was traveling eastbound on Old Highway 40 in the 2400 block when it left the roadway to the right. The vehicle later re-entered the road near Spring Hill Road, crossed over the roadway, and entered the north ditch, where it rolled several times before coming to rest on its side.

The pickup was occupied by two young men.

Hunter Lee Still, 20, of Sharon Springs, was pronounced deceased as a result of injuries sustained in the crash. He was transported to Hays Medical Center, where his injuries were determined to be fatal. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported that next of kin was notified later Saturday morning.

The driver of the vehicle, Cort William Collins, 20, of Winona, was also transported to Hays Medical Center with suspected serious injuries. His condition has not been released.

According to the crash report, neither occupant was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident.

The vehicle was removed from the scene by Dreiling Field Service and towed to their facility. The pickup was registered in Kansas and insured through State Farm.

No additional details regarding contributing factors have been released, and the crash remains under investigation.

The loss has deeply affected communities across northwest Kansas, where both young men were known. With Sharon Springs, Winona, and Colby closely connected through school, work, and community life, the news has resonated strongly throughout the region.