33-Year-Old Man Dies After Vehicle Is Swept Away By Kansas Floodwaters

India-West News Desk

WELLINGTON, KS – A man from Elkhorn, Nebraska, was found dead after his vehicle was swept away by floodwaters near Wellington, Kansas, authorities said.

The victim was identified as 33-year-old Venkatesh Doppalaudi, originally from Andhra Pradesh. The Sumner County Sheriff’s Office said his body was recovered at in the afternoon of June 28.

Deputies said Doppalaudi’s vehicle hydroplaned into a flooded ditch after passing multiple road barricades before floodwaters carried it to a nearby bridge, where it became lodged. A witness told deputies the vehicle entered the water with the driver still inside. By the time emergency crews removed the vehicle, Doppalaudi was no longer inside.

Fast-moving floodwaters prevented the Wellington Fire Department from launching a water rescue, the Sheriff’s Office said. Search efforts were supported by a Kansas Highway Patrol Air Unit and a police drone before they were suspended after about four hours because conditions had become too hazardous. The operation resumed on the morning of June 28, leading to the recovery of Doppalaudi’s body later that day.

The Indian consulate in Houston is currently coordinating with Kansas state law enforcement and family representatives to complete necessary legal formalities and facilitate the repatriation of his remains. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched. The money raised will be used to fund the transportation cost, funeral and other expenses.