By Crash News Writer 
Washington, KS (September 17, 2025) — A Colorado man was killed Tuesday afternoon in Washington County following a collision between a motorcycle and a tractor on US-36 highway.
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 2:46 p.m. on September 16, about one mile west of the city of Washington, near Osage Road. Authorities said a 2022 Moto Guzzi motorcycle was traveling eastbound on US-36 when it struck the rear of a 1981 John Deere tractor, which was also eastbound at the time.
The impact ejected the motorcyclist, 68-year-old Thomas Lewis of Firestone, Colorado, from his vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Reports did not confirm whether Lewis was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.
The tractor’s driver, 26-year-old Jonathan Schmidt of Diller, Nebraska, was uninjured and pulled the tractor safely onto the shoulder.
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After a tragic incident like this, it is crucial to understand your legal rights. Families affected by deadly motorcycle accidents can benefit from learning about car accident laws in Kansas to know what steps to take next.
Collisions involving agricultural equipment and motorcycles often result in severe consequences. If your loved one died in a car accident near Washington, you may be entitled to compensation. Seeking legal counsel quickly can help preserve evidence and clarify liability. Families searching for answers after a fatal car accident near me or a serious car accident near Washington should consider speaking with a trusted attorney to protect their rights.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on initial reports and may be updated as more information becomes available. For answers to legal concerns following a fatal crash, visit our frequently asked questions in Kansas.
- Authorities identified the deceased as Thomas Lewis, age 68, of Firestone, Colorado.
- The crash remains under investigation, and helmet use has not been confirmed.
- For updates on traffic or highway conditions in the area, check with local transportation services.
For those in need of guidance and support, visit our accident resources in Kansas to explore next steps.
This content is provided for general information purposes only and is not legal advice. Details may change as official investigations proceed. Learn more with our disclaimer.
If your family has been affected by this crash, consult a Kansas personal injury lawyer right away to discuss your rights and potential claims.