Deputy’s Car Washed Away in Flood | Wichita News

A Kansas deputy lost his patrol car to floodwaters while rushing to rescue a driver swept away by rising water — a tragic outcome fueled by two drivers who ignored barricades and hydroplaned into the river. Though the deputy was pulled out safely by a human chain, his vehicle vanished under the same floodwaters that claimed the life of 33-year-old Venkatesh Doppalaudi from Nebraska. Authorities call it a preventable tragedy — those barriers aren’t just warnings, they’re lifesavers. One driver got a citation; the other’s decision cost a life. This isn’t an isolated incident — just weeks prior, another person was rescued after ignoring a road closure. A sobering reminder: no destination is worth risking your life — or the lives of those trying to save you. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a1250d9f26e93dbc