Driver Injured After Vehicle Leaves Roadway and Crashes Near US-81 Bridge

Saline County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a single-vehicle crash at approximately 12:15 p.m. Friday at mile marker 157 on U.S. Highway 81, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said a black 2018 Ford F-150, traveling northbound, left the roadway and entered the median, where it continued for a significant distance before launching over a bridge. The vehicle reportedly traveled between the guardrails and landed on Shipton Road, clearing one guardrail and striking a second.

The driver was identified as Paul Sloan, 43, of York, Nebraska. Deputies found Sloan unconscious at the scene, though he is believed to have regained consciousness prior to being transported by Salina EMS to Salina Regional Health Center.

Investigators indicated impairment is suspected as a possible factor in the crash. A blood sample was obtained, and results are pending. No charges have been filed at this time.

The investigation remains ongoing, and further action will be determined once toxicology results are received.