College Student Killed in 71-car Kansas Pileup Was Just Months Away From Graduation

A promising college student set to graduate in just two months lost his life in a devastating pileup on Interstate 70 in northwest Kansas.

Twenty-year-old Dawson Hogan was among eight victims in the 71-vehicle crash that occurred Friday night. He was on his way home to Salina for spring break to visit his family when tragedy struck. A dust storm had significantly reduced visibility, contributing to the massive accident.

To his loved ones, Dawson was much more than an accomplished athlete. He was an All-American wrestler, a talented football player, and, most importantly, a devoted son, brother, and friend. His family remembers him as someone with a bright future, a strong work ethic, and a heart full of kindness.

“He was a built-in best friend. That’s what he was,” his brother Dakota Hogan said.

His siblings say they already feel the tremendous void left by his absence. His sister, Sidney Hogan, shared how much his friends also valued him.

“From what all his friends are saying, he was somebody they could always lean on and look to for support and guidance, so that makes me very proud as a big sister,” she said.

Dawson was set to graduate in May from Fort Hays State Tech with a degree in electrical technology. His family says he was an exceptional student, even earning a nomination for the National Honor Society—an achievement he humbly kept to himself.

“He didn’t think that was a big deal to tell everybody about,” Sidney Hogan recalled.

Now, his family is left cherishing the memories they made with him—summer days spent at their aunt’s pool, wrestling matches in the living room, and simple, everyday moments that now mean everything.

“You never know when your last moments will be, and I’ve learned to spend time with my family when I can and just enjoy the days we do have together,” Sidney reflected.

As they grieve, Dawson’s loved ones say they are still seeking answers about the details of the crash. For them, the pain of losing him is immeasurable, but his impact will never be forgotten.

Reference: college student who was weeks away from graduating among those killed in 71-car crash

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