Fatal Crash Reported on U.S. 36 in Norton County on Independence Day

Date: July 4, 2025

Location: U.S. Highway 36, Milepost 105 Eastbound – approximately 8.5 miles west of U.S. 283 in Norton County

Time of Crash: 2:42 PM

Investigated by: Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper K130

A tragic two-vehicle collision occurred Friday afternoon in Norton County, resulting in the death of one individual and multiple injuries.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2009 Pontiac G6 was eastbound on U.S. 36 when the driver lost control, hydroplaned, and struck a westbound 2025 Honda Odyssey head-on. The crash happened near mile marker 105, west of the U.S. 283 junction.

The driver of the Pontiac, 21-year-old Darian W. Marston of McCook, Nebraska, was not wearing a seatbelt and was pronounced dead at the scene. He was taken to Plumer-Gobber Funeral Home.

A passenger in Marston’s vehicle, Lily Sheldon, also of Nebraska, sustained serious injuries. She was first taken to Norton County Hospital and later transferred to Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska. Her age and hometown are currently unknown.

In the Honda Odyssey, **50-year-old David A. Chappell** of Augusta, Kansas, was behind the wheel and suffered minor injuries. He and his passengers were all transported to Norton County Hospital for treatment.

Those passengers included:

* Lynn N. Chappell, 45, of Augusta – minor injuries

* Bryson Chappell, 11, of Augusta – minor injuries

* Dixie Labreau, 79, of Maize – minor injuries; later transferred to Good Samaritan in Kearney

All occupants of the Honda were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Both vehicles were removed from the scene by New Look towing and taken to a tow lot. The investigation remains ongoing.