New dispatch audio from a Kansas soccer field incident reveals the immediate response by first responders after a driver allegedly plowed into spectators and children at the Stryker Sports Complex in Wichita. The recordings, which cover a 30-minute log of communications, capture dispatchers labeling the event as an "MCI," or mass-casualty incident, as units rushed to the scene on Saturday.
The crash resulted in the deaths of Cole Adrian, a 6-year-old boy, and Nicholas Schafer, a 35-year-old man. Both victims were residents of McPherson. Ten additional people were injured in the incident, a group that included five children. Police identified the driver as a 34-year-old woman who was behind the wheel of a Chevrolet pickup. At the time of the crash, two of her children were inside the vehicle, while another child was playing soccer on a different field at the complex.
Authorities questioned the driver and over 30 witnesses. This group included the two children who were riding in the pickup during the crash. Following these interviews, police released the driver on Sunday without charges. Authorities stated that her release was pending toxicology results and an examination of her vehicle. Police consulted with the Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office before making the decision to release her. While the driver was initially taken into custody, law enforcement has not indicated whether criminal charges will be filed in the future.
In response to the tragedy, the City of Wichita confirmed that its public works division will install temporary barriers at key locations around the Stryker Sports Complex. These measures are intended to remain in place until more permanent solutions can be implemented. The city also stated that it would assess security protocols at the complex. For the upcoming weekend, police presence will be increased at the facility, and local mental health professionals will be on site to assist affected families.
McPherson Mayor Jim Loving issued a statement acknowledging the grief in the community. "There is nothing I can say that makes that right," Loving wrote. He expressed solidarity with those who lost loved ones and offered prayers for the recovery of the injured. Loving also thanked bystanders who provided aid before the first ambulance arrived, as well as first responders in Wichita and McPherson.
Wichita Police described the case as an active and ongoing investigation. A statement sent to Fox News Digital by the department directed inquiries to previous media releases and noted that updates would be provided when available.