Aug 29, 2024

Kan. driver in crash fleeing police that killed 1-year-old faces murder charge

Posted Aug 29, 2024 11:00 AM
Papalas photo Atchison County
Papalas photo Atchison County

ATCHISON COUNTY—A Kansas woman injured in a fatal crash during a police chase on Sunday has been moved from the hospital to jail and faces multiple requested charges.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Toyota Corolla driven by   Maria  Papalas, 28, Atchison, was southbound on Sherman Road at  244th Road five miles south of Atchison at a high rate of speed.

The driver was attempting to elude law enforcement. Due to the speed, Papalas lost control on a curve. The car entered the west ditch and rolled multiple times before coming to rest on its top.

EMS transported a passenger identified as 1-year-old Mixalis Papalas-Schulpz of Atchison to Children's Mercy for treatment of critical injuries. He died on Tuesday, according to the KHP.

 EMS transported Papalas to Stormont Vail for treatment of minor injuries.  She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP and is in custody on requested charges that include  Murder in the 1st degree; In the comm of a felony; Fleeing or attempt to elude a law enforcement officer; - Aggravated endangering a child;  Interference with LEO; obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution; Battery on LEO; phys contact federal LEO; - Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor;  Possession of marijuana and  Reckless driving. She is being held on a $500,000 bond, according to online jail records.