“Erin Rowland Moreno, aged 42 and originally from Valley Center, Kansas, has tragically passed away. She was a former teacher at George Bannerman Dealey Montessori Academy and was currently teaching 3rd grade at Valley Center Public Schools, USD 262 in Wichita, Kansas.
Incident Summary:
A fatal crash took place near Emporia on a Saturday afternoon, as reported by the Kansas Highway Patrol. The incident involved an SUV driven by 44-year-old Guerrero Moreno Jr. from Wichita and a semi-truck operated by 39-year-old Stetson Cooley from North Little Rock, Arkansas. The collision led to the tragic deaths of Erin Moreno and 17-year-old Anthony Barrera.
Injuries:
Additionally, three children in the SUV sustained injuries and were taken to Newman Regional Health for medical treatment. Their identities have not been disclosed due to privacy regulations. Guerrero Moreno Jr. suffered minor injuries and was hospitalized, while Stetson Cooley escaped unharmed.
Accident Details:
The crash occurred around 3:10 p.m. at mile marker 134.4 on the Kansas Turnpike, located two miles northeast of the Emporia service exit. Both vehicles were traveling south when the semi-truck rear-ended the SUV. The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation. Erin Moreno passed away about ninety minutes after the collision, whereas Anthony Barrera lost his life at the scene.
Community Impact:
The untimely deaths of Erin Moreno and Anthony Barrera have had a profound impact on the communities of Wichita and Valley Center. Friends, family, and colleagues are grieving their loss and providing support to the affected families during this difficult time.
Funeral Arrangements:
Details regarding the funeral arrangements and obituaries for Erin Moreno and Anthony Barrera will be shared by the family at a later date.”