July 03--Difficulty in removing cattle from an overturned semi-truck trailer led to traffic on K-96 at Maize Road being interrupted for about 12 hours Wednesday, the Sedgwick County Sherrif's Office said.
The eastbound lane on K-96 was closed from the time of the accident shortly after midnight until about noon. The westbound lane was closed about half that time as responders removed the 26 head of cattle from the trailer and then hauled off the damaged rig.
The driver of the truck sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene. He apparently fell asleep, lost control of the truck after side-swiping a guard rail and the semi overturned on its side, Sgt. Michael Morland said.
After setting up a portable corral, the Sedgwick County Fire Department used the Jaws of Life to open up the trailer so the trapped cattle could be taken out. Four head had to be euthanized at the scene, Morland said.
The hole opened by the firefighters was low, so the cattle couldn't walk out upright. Plus, they weren't eager to cooperate.
"They haven't had a ride they've liked so far," Morland said when three head remained in the trailer, "so trying to get them in another trailer hasn't worked out too well."
Reach Rick Plumlee at 316-268-6660 or [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter: @rickplumlee.
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