33-Year-Old Topeka Man Tramayne Smith Tragically Killed After Vehicle Plunges Off Closed I-70 Overpass in Downtown Construction Zone; Authorities Investigating How Driver Accessed Restricted Area
TOPEKA, KS — A tragic accident in the early hours of Saturday, April 5, 2025, has claimed the life of 33-year-old Tramayne N. Smith, a Topeka resident, after his vehicle went over the edge of a closed section of the I-70 overpass currently under construction.
The fatal crash occurred around 1:29 a.m. near the intersection of 2nd Street and S. Kansas Avenue in downtown Topeka, an area surrounded by heavy roadwork as part of the ongoing Polk-Quincy Viaduct reconstruction project. According to the Topeka Police Department, Smith was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Crash Details and Scene
Authorities report that Smith’s vehicle had somehow gained access to a portion of the interstate that was closed to the public due to active construction. The vehicle subsequently drove off the unfinished overpass and landed below, causing fatal injuries.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but tragically, Smith could not be saved. No other vehicles or individuals were involved in the incident.
Active Investigation Underway
The Topeka Police Department has launched a full investigation to determine how Smith accessed the restricted area and what factors may have led to the crash. Investigators are currently reviewing the scene, road conditions, and any potential surveillance footage. Toxicology results and an autopsy are pending to determine if impairment or a medical emergency may have played a role.
At this time, authorities have not released information about the exact path Smith took to enter the construction zone or whether proper barriers and warning signs were in place and intact at the time of the crash.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of Tramayne Smith has left family, friends, and the broader Topeka community in shock. Known for his warm personality and infectious smile, Smith was described by those who knew him as a generous and ambitious individual who loved his city and had dreams he was actively pursuing.
Social media tributes have begun to pour in, with friends remembering Smith as “full of energy” and “always willing to lend a hand.” A candlelight vigil is reportedly being planned by loved ones to honor his memory.
Ongoing Construction Project Raises Safety Concerns
The crash has also reignited concerns over safety in and around the Polk-Quincy Viaduct construction zone. The $234 million project aims to overhaul the aging stretch of I-70, replacing the viaduct with a wider, safer, and more modern thoroughfare through the heart of downtown Topeka. As part of the project, various sections of the road have been intermittently closed and rerouted.
City and state officials have urged drivers to follow detours closely and remain vigilant when navigating near construction zones. Saturday’s tragic crash highlights the real dangers of entering restricted areas, whether accidentally or intentionally.
Safety and Awareness Moving Forward
As Topeka continues with its ambitious infrastructure upgrades, authorities stress the importance of adhering to road closures and respecting barriers designed to keep motorists safe.
“This is a heartbreaking incident, and we urge all drivers to remain aware of signage and closures, especially in high-risk construction areas,” said a spokesperson for the Topeka Police Department. “These rules are in place for a reason — to save lives.”
Anyone with additional information regarding the crash is encouraged to contact the Topeka Police Department as investigations continue.
In the meantime, a community grieves the sudden and devastating loss of Tramayne Smith — a young life taken far too soon.