Overview
- Ballard, who was driving Tuesday night, left the roadway on westbound I-470 near mile-marker 183, struck a delineator post and an embankment, and then hit a bridge pillar, the Kansas Highway Patrol report says.
- The 46-year-old coach was alone, wearing a seat belt, and was taken to Stormont Vail Health after the Aug. 4 crash; Washburn has described his injuries as serious but has not released further medical details.
- Washburn President JuliAnn Mazachek issued a statement asking the community to respect the family’s privacy and saying the university will provide updates when appropriate.
- Members of the campus community, including football coach Zach Watkins, expressed shock and support and said teams and staff have been praying for Ballard and his family.
- The Kansas Highway Patrol report is the primary source on the accident mechanics and officials will continue the investigation; the crash could affect team preparations for the season depending on forthcoming medical and program updates.