Search Continues for Missing 12-Year-Old Kollin Showwalter After Tragic Train Accident on Neosho River Bridge
NEOSHO COUNTY, Kan. — A community is reeling in heartbreak and sorrow as emergency crews continue a desperate search along the Neosho River for 12-year-old Kollin Showwalter, who was struck by a train while crossing a trestle bridge near Erie, Kansas, on Wednesday.
The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) confirmed that Kollin, of Erie, Kansas, and Arthur Pollries, a 16-year-old from Walnut, were on the train bridge south of Erie when the tragic incident occurred. The teens were reportedly running across the bridge when they were struck by an oncoming train.
Crews recovered Arthur’s body shortly after the incident. As of Thursday evening, the search for Kollin’s body continues, with Kansas Task Force 4 and multiple regional agencies working tirelessly under increasingly hazardous conditions.
Massive Search Operation Underway
Neosho County Sheriff Greg Taylor provided updates Thursday, confirming that numerous agencies had converged on the area to support search operations. These include:
- Neosho County emergency personnel
- Chanute Fire Department
- Pittsburg Fire Department
- Anderson County Search and Rescue
- Kansas Wildlife and Parks
- Kansas Highway Patrol
Several boats are actively sweeping the Neosho River, especially near log jams, which are known to trap debris and, in tragic cases like this, human remains. One specialized crew is employing sonar technology to help locate the missing boy in waters made murky and treacherous by recent flooding.
The Kansas Highway Patrol is also flying search patterns along the river, from Neosho County to Highway 400, in hopes of spotting signs of Kollin from above. Meanwhile, drones are in the air, giving searchers real-time aerial data of difficult-to-reach riverbanks and submerged zones.
Dangerous Conditions Hamper Progress
While crews have demonstrated extraordinary dedication in this heartbreaking task, floodwaters are presenting a serious challenge. Swift currents, submerged hazards, and rising river levels are making it increasingly difficult—and dangerous—to navigate certain sections of the river.
“Due to floodwaters, there are still some areas too dangerous for crews to get to,” Sheriff Taylor stated. “We also expect the water to rise more on Friday, which will bring into question whether search efforts should take pause until the water level goes down.”
Officials are expected to reassess the situation Thursday evening to determine whether operations should continue through Friday or temporarily halt for safety reasons.
Community Asked to Stay Clear of Area
The Neosho County Sheriff’s Office issued a public plea for the community to stay away from the search area to allow trained professionals to carry out the operation without interference or additional risk.
“We appreciate everyone’s willingness to assist,” said Sheriff Taylor, “but due to the current conditions, we ask that the public stay away from the area and allow the trained and equipped personnel to search the river.”
Mourning and Prayer in Neosho County
The loss of 16-year-old Arthur Pollries and the continued search for young Kollin Showwalter have cast a heavy shadow over Erie, Walnut, and surrounding communities. Local churches and community groups are organizing vigils and offering counseling services to students, families, and friends who are struggling to make sense of the tragedy.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families affected,” Sheriff Taylor added. “This is a very sad tragedy for everyone involved and our community.”
Kollin, described by locals as a kind-hearted and energetic boy, was known in his hometown of Erie as someone who lit up a room with his smile. Arthur, a teenager from Walnut, was remembered as a protective older sibling and devoted friend.
What’s Next
As the community holds its breath, the professional crews continue to search the dangerous and unpredictable waters of the Neosho River. Authorities promise continued transparency and support for the families impacted, no matter how long it takes.
Updates will be provided as conditions evolve and as more information becomes available. Anyone with potentially helpful information related to the incident is urged to contact the Neosho County Sheriff’s Office.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this tragedy and needs emotional support, please reach out to local crisis services or mental health professionals. The Neosho County school district and area churches are also providing grief counselors to those in need.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be released by local law enforcement and emergency management as the search continues.
