Delbert Kevin Oldfield Obituary, Death – A Tragic Fatal Crash on I-35

A tragic and heartbreaking accident on Wednesday night, January 22, 2025, claimed the life of Delbert Kevin Oldfield, a 61-year-old man from Baldwin City, Kansas. The devastating crash occurred along Interstate 35 in Johnson County, Kansas, in the northbound lanes just south of 75th Street in Overland Park. The incident unfolded at approximately 7:47 p.m. and, despite quick emergency response efforts, led to the untimely death of Oldfield. The Kansas Highway Patrol has confirmed that he was the sole occupant of the vehicle, and authorities are now investigating the factors contributing to the crash, which has left both the Baldwin City community and the greater Kansas area in mourning.

The incident involved a 2012 Audi A6 that was traveling north on I-35 at a high rate of speed when it lost control. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Oldfield’s attempt to avoid colliding with another vehicle caused him to swerve left, ultimately leading his Audi to veer off the road and strike the median barrier wall. Following the collision with the barrier, the vehicle continued to ride along the wall before spinning out of control and coming to a halt, facing backward on the highway.

Upon arrival at the crash site, emergency responders worked quickly to transport Oldfield to Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after reaching the hospital. Authorities noted that Oldfield was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, and this factor appears to have contributed significantly to the severity of his injuries. While the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, speed, the abrupt maneuver, and the lack of seatbelt usage are being examined as critical elements.

Delbert Kevin Oldfield’s death has left a significant void in the lives of his family, friends, and the Baldwin City community. Loved ones described him as a kind, caring, and deeply involved individual who was always willing to lend a helping hand. Oldfield’s passing is not only a personal loss for those closest to him but also serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of high-speed driving, particularly on highways where traffic density and unexpected actions can lead to tragic results.

As the investigation continues, the Kansas Highway Patrol is urging witnesses or anyone with information regarding the crash to come forward and assist in the inquiry. Investigators are currently reviewing all possible factors, including road conditions, vehicle speed, and the specific events leading up to the crash. Authorities are also reminding drivers of the critical importance of wearing seat belts, noting that seatbelt usage is a key element in reducing fatalities in the event of an accident.

The Baldwin City community is now coming to terms with the tragic loss of Oldfield, while local officials are calling for heightened awareness about road safety, especially on high-speed highways like I-35. They hope that, through this tragedy, people will be reminded of the life-saving importance of following traffic laws, wearing seat belts, and making responsible driving decisions.

Delbert Kevin Oldfield’s sudden and tragic passing highlights the often-overlooked risks associated with speeding, sudden swerves, and the lack of seat belt usage. While we await the completion of the investigation, Oldfield’s death serves as an urgent and sobering reminder for all motorists to be vigilant and responsible on the road, in the hope that similar tragedies can be prevented in the future. As the Overland Park and Baldwin City communities mourn the loss of this well-liked man, the legacy of his life, and the lessons learned from his untimely death, will hopefully lead to increased safety awareness and more cautious driving habits.

The Kansas Highway Patrol is continuing its thorough investigation into the incident, while local authorities express their condolences and ask the public to remain vigilant in their efforts to ensure safety on the roads. Delbert Kevin Oldfield may no longer be with us, but his memory and the lessons learned from his tragic accident will continue to serve as an important reminder to all who drive.