One Injured in Two-Vehicle Crash Near Tuttle Creek Boulevard

Authorities cite driver for failure to yield at stop sign, passenger transported to hospital with minor injuries

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A two-vehicle crash in Manhattan, Kansas on February 25, 2026 resulted in one person being transported to the hospital with minor injuries. The collision occurred at the intersection of Northfield Road and Tuttle Creek Boulevard, with a Ford F-250 driven by Christopher Bunnel colliding with a Ford Edge driven by Renee Novak. Jerome Novak, a passenger in the Ford Edge, was taken to Via Christi Hospital for treatment.

Why it matters

Traffic accidents at busy intersections like this one in Manhattan are an ongoing public safety concern, highlighting the need for drivers to be vigilant and follow traffic laws to prevent injuries. This incident also underscores the importance of vehicle insurance coverage to protect all parties involved in a collision.

The details

According to the Riley County Police Department, the crash occurred around 4:16 pm on February 25th. Christopher Bunnel, driving a 2017 Ford F-250, failed to yield at a stop sign and collided with the 2016 Ford Edge driven by Renee Novak. Jerome Novak, a 51-year-old passenger in the Ford Edge, was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

  • The crash occurred at approximately 4:16 pm on February 25, 2026.
  • Jerome Novak was transported to Via Christi Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

The players

Christopher Bunnel

The 43-year-old Manhattan resident driving the Ford F-250 who failed to yield at a stop sign, causing the collision.

Renee Novak

The 51-year-old Manhattan resident driving the Ford Edge that was struck by Bunnel's vehicle.

Jerome Novak

The 51-year-old passenger in the Ford Edge who was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

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What’s next

The Riley County Police Department will determine if any further charges will be filed against Christopher Bunnel for the crash.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for all drivers to remain vigilant, obey traffic signals, and ensure proper insurance coverage to protect themselves and others in the event of a collision. Intersection safety is an ongoing concern in communities like Manhattan that must be addressed through education and enforcement.