Man killed in storm at lake

One person was killed and at least three others were injured when severe storms swept across a lake in Kansas late Wednesday evening.

According to the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, a thunderstorm with rain and high winds moved into Russell County around 11:32 p.m. on July 3.

As this storm moved across the county, the National Weather Service measured wind gusts in excess of 68 to 70 miles per hour. This storm moved across central Russell County, which included Lake Wilson.

At approximately 11:52 p.m., Russell County Emergency Services received numerous calls reporting multiple RVs blown over. The Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, Kansas Highway Patrol, Russell County EMS, Lucas and Dorrance Fire Departments, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers responded to Lake Wilson and found multiple RVs blown over in the parks.

During the search and rescue efforts, three people were transported to Russell Regional Hospital with injuries by Russell County EMS and one person was found deceased.

Christopher Montoya, 64, of Holyrood, was found dead in the Hell Creek Park area of ​​the state park. Montoya was taken to a local morgue and an autopsy is planned.

Cleanup efforts are underway and everyone is urged to be cautious and stay safe if they choose to visit Lake Wilson as debris may still be present on the roads, in the parks and in the water. Power has been knocked out in parts of the Minooka Park area due to the storm and is expected to be restored in the near future.

Anyone needing assistance recovering RVs, boats or other property is asked to call 911 so the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers can assist.