Kansas City Man Killed in Crash at Rockhurst University

34-year-old Sterling Roaf died after his vehicle struck a campus building, marking the city's 7th traffic fatality this year.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Kansas City police have identified the man killed in a crash at Rockhurst University on Friday as 34-year-old Sterling Roaf. According to a preliminary investigation, Roaf was driving a white Nissan Murano that sped through a stop sign, hit an unoccupied Jeep Wrangler, and then struck a campus building before coming to a stop. Roaf was transported to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing issue of traffic safety in Kansas City, which has seen seven traffic-related deaths so far in 2026. The crash at Rockhurst University also raises concerns about vehicle speeds and driver behavior near college campuses, where pedestrians and students are frequently present.

The details

According to the police report, the white Nissan Murano driven by Sterling Roaf was traveling south on Virginia Avenue at a high rate of speed when it failed to stop at the intersection of Rockhurst Road and Virginia Avenue. The Nissan then struck an unoccupied Jeep Wrangler parked on Rockhurst Road, before veering off the road, up a grassy hill, and crashing into Corcoran Hall, a residence building on the Rockhurst University campus.

  • The crash occurred on Friday afternoon.
  • Sterling Roaf was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The players

Sterling Roaf

A 34-year-old Kansas City resident who was the driver of the vehicle involved in the fatal crash at Rockhurst University.

Rockhurst University

A private Jesuit university located in Kansas City, Missouri, where the crash occurred and caused damage to a campus building.

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What they’re saying

“We're saddened by the loss of life that occurred and are holding the family in prayer.”

— Katherine Frohoff, Rockhurst University spokesperson (The Star)

What’s next

The Kansas City Police Department is continuing its investigation into the cause of the crash and any potential contributing factors.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices, especially in areas with high pedestrian traffic like college campuses. It also highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve traffic safety and reduce fatalities on Kansas City's roads.