Neosho County, Kan. – A quiet Kansas community is now gripped by heartbreak and uncertainty after a devastating accident on June 18, when a tragic train collision on the Trustall Bridge claimed the life of one boy and left another missing. As of Thursday evening, search and rescue teams continued to scour the Neosho River for any sign of 12-year-old Kollin Showwalter, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
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Tragedy on the Tracks
According to the Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP), the incident occurred when Kollin Showwalter and 16-year-old Arthur Polley of Walnut were walking across the train bridge just south of Erie. The two boys were reportedly attempting to outrun an oncoming train when they were struck. Arthur’s body was recovered shortly after the incident. Kollin has not been found.
The accident has devastated the communities of Erie, Walnut, and surrounding areas. The grief has been compounded by the ongoing search for Kollin, which is now entering its third day.
A Search Fueled by Hope
Emergency crews were on the scene within minutes and were able to recover Arthur’s body, but finding Kollin has proven more difficult. As of Thursday, multiple agencies — including fire departments, water rescue teams, drones, sonar units, K-9 teams, and volunteers — continued to comb the river and its banks.
Challenging terrain, fast-moving currents, and the scale of the Neosho River have complicated the mission. Despite these obstacles, authorities remain committed, and hope endures that Kollin might still be found.
“Kollin is a bright, kind, and adventurous young boy,” said a family friend. “We are praying for a miracle. No one is giving up.”
A Community United in Grief and Support
Arthur Polley’s sudden passing has shaken the towns of Erie and Walnut. Tributes have poured in from classmates, teachers, neighbors, and friends. Arthur is remembered as a thoughtful, warmhearted teenager with a promising future.
Meanwhile, Kollin’s family, friends, and neighbors continue to gather near the river, united by hope and heartbreak. Dozens of volunteers have joined the search efforts, while others have helped feed and support the first responders working tirelessly in the heat.
The Erie School District is offering counseling and grief support for students and faculty, acknowledging the profound impact the loss has had on the school community.
Candlelight Vigil Planned
To honor both boys, a candlelight vigil is being planned in downtown Erie. The gathering will give friends, families, and neighbors a chance to mourn Arthur’s loss, support Kollin’s family, and hold space for prayer and reflection.
“The vigil is about community — to share sorrow, to support each other, and to remind the Showwalter family that they are not alone,” said a local organizer.
The Search Continues
Authorities have asked the public to stay clear of active search areas but encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward. As the hours stretch on, the emotional toll on the community deepens — but so does the determination to bring Kollin home.
The community’s resilience has been evident in the wake of the tragedy. Residents continue to donate supplies, send messages of support, and maintain watchful hope for the outcome no one yet dares to define.
A Moment That Changed Everything
This tragic incident is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly life can change. A carefree summer afternoon turned into a community-wide emergency — the kind of event that leaves permanent marks.
As Neosho County struggles to come to terms with the loss of Arthur and the uncertainty surrounding Kollin, the sense of unity and compassion on display is undeniable. It is a painful time, but also one defined by love — for the boys, for their families, and for one another.
Final Thoughts
Our deepest condolences go out to the Polley and Showwalter families. We grieve with you, and we hope with you. May Arthur Polley rest in peace. And may Kollin Showwalter be found and returned safely to those who love him.