On Monday afternoon at approximately 4;30 o'clock a tragic accident occurred that has stirred this entire community. Paul L. Kirby, 12 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Kirby of Coldwater, was struck by an automobile driven by Vernon Loucks of Protection. The accident happened 2.3 miles south of the city limits on U. S. Highway 183 on the hill south of the roadside park.

As reported by Comanche County Sheriff, Phil Hackney, Paul was riding his bicycle along the right hand side of the highway going south. Mr. Loucks was traveling the same direction and as he pulled to the left to pass the rider, Paul suddenly swerved without any warning into the path of the automobile. The sheriff's office and Hatfield ambulance were notified immediately by a motorist who came upon the scene of the accident. Paul was taken in the ambulance to the Comanche County Hospital in Coldwater where he received emergency treatment by Dr. Glenn of Protection.

Paul did not respond to treatment and showed no signs of improvement and it was decided to take him to Wichita to a brain specialist. Paul died at 8:25 enroute to Wichita at about the city limits. The ambulance turned around and began the return trip to Coldwater. Paul never regained consciousness.

Every effort was extended and all precaution and provision possible was taken; however, none proved to any avail. It was described as an unavoidable accident. No charges have been filed. The sympathy of the entire community is extended to all who have been touched by this tragedy.

Funeral services have been set for 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 3. Services will be in the United Methodist church, Coldwater, and will be in charge of Rev. Carl W. Carrier assisted by Bernard Plumb, pastor of the Coldwater Christian church. Interment will be in Crown Hill Cemetery.

---

Thanks to Shirley Brier for finding, transcribing and contributing the above news article to this web site!

This RootsWeb website is being created by Jerry Ferrin with the able assistance of many Contributors. Your comments, suggestions and contributions of historical information and photographs to this site are welcome. Please sign the Guest Book. This page was created 24 August 2006.