Newly released dispatch audio from the day a driver allegedly drove into children and spectators at a Kansas soccer field reveals the moments first responders arrived at the scene on Saturday.
During the call, dispatchers referred to the disturbing event as an “MCI,” or mass-casualty incident. This occurred at the Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita.
Cole Adrian, age 6, and Nicholas Schafer, age 35, sadly lost their lives. Both hailed from McPherson.
Alongside the fatalities, ten others, including five children, sustained injuries.
The 34-year-old woman operating the vehicle was released without charges, according to the police.
Authorities have yet to determine whether any criminal charges will be brought against the driver, who was initially taken into custody.
On Sunday, police stated that she was released while awaiting toxicology results and an investigation into her Chevrolet pickup.
At the time, her two children were in the vehicle, and one had been playing soccer on a different field at the complex.
Investigators have spoken with the driver and more than 30 witnesses, including the two children who were present during the incident.
Police consulted with the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office before deciding to release her.
A detailed log of dispatch communications provides an account of the response to Saturday’s incident:
- First responders reported at least 11 patients on-site, with two categorized as “working blues,” suggesting serious medical situations.
- One responder noted nine patients, indicating “two code blacks” and “two code blues,” while others were still being assessed.
- The situation was defined as a Level 3 “MCI,” described as “a motor vehicle accident involving numerous pedestrians.”
- Dispatch audio mentioned a 5-year-old victim who experienced multi-system trauma after being struck. Fortunately, the child had a Glasgow Coma Scale score of 15, indicating full responsiveness at assessment.
- Over 30 minutes into the recording, a responder announced, “There’s another victim in the middle of the field,” though it’s unclear if this was a new discovery.
On Monday, Wichita’s city officials announced that temporary barriers would be set up at key spots around the Stryker Sports Complex until more durable solutions are put in place.
The city also stated it would evaluate security around the area, with police presence expected at the facility this coming weekend, alongside local mental health professionals to support families in light of the tragedy.
McPherson Mayor Jim Loving expressed condolences, stating:
“There’s really nothing I can say that makes this right. To the families who have lost someone: this entire community is mourning with you, and we will stand by you for as long as needed.
“To the injured and their families: our thoughts are with you for a speedy recovery. We appreciate the bystanders who rushed to help before the first ambulance arrived, as well as the first responders in Wichita and here at home.”
A spokesperson for the Wichita Police remarked, “This is an active investigation, and I would refer you to our media release. We will share updates as they become available.”
