Pottawatomie County, Kansas — Community in Shock After Woman Intentionally Run Over in Violent Incident; Suspect in Custody

Pottawatomie County, Kansas — Community in Shock After Woman Intentionally Run Over in Violent Incident; Suspect in Custody

WAMEGO, KS — June 22, 2025 — A deeply unsettling act of violence has rocked the quiet, rural community of Wamego, Kansas, after a woman was deliberately struck and run over by a vehicle in what authorities have described as a targeted and intentional act. The incident occurred during the early evening hours of Saturday, June 21, and has left residents shaken and demanding answers.

The Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office has identified the suspect as 43-year-old Dana Blume of Onaga, Kansas. Blume was taken into custody at the scene without further incident and is currently being held at the Pottawatomie County Jail. Officials have confirmed she is facing multiple felony charges, including attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, and aggravated assault.

The Incident

According to a preliminary statement released by the Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to an emergency call shortly after 7:15 p.m. regarding a vehicle-pedestrian collision in a residential area just outside the Wamego city limits. Upon arrival, deputies found an adult female lying in a driveway, suffering from multiple severe injuries consistent with being struck by a moving vehicle.

Witnesses reported a heated verbal argument between the suspect and the victim moments before the violent act occurred. According to those at the scene, Blume entered her vehicle following the confrontation, accelerated toward the victim, and struck her with the car, pinning her momentarily before coming to a stop several feet away. Bystanders rushed to aid the injured woman and restrain the suspect until law enforcement arrived.

The victim, whose identity has not been released pending family notification, was transported via air ambulance to Stormont Vail Health in Topeka, where she remains in critical but stable condition. Hospital officials have confirmed she suffered multiple broken bones, internal injuries, and severe trauma, but is receiving intensive care and showing signs of responsiveness.

A Community Reeling

The violent nature of the incident—and the fact that it unfolded in front of neighbors and children—has shocked residents in this typically peaceful corner of Pottawatomie County.

“We just don’t see things like this here,” said longtime Wamego resident Linda Garcia, who lives near the scene. “We heard the screaming, then a loud bang—and when we came outside, it was chaos. It was horrifying.”

Local officials and civic leaders have expressed deep concern for the safety and well-being of the victim and have urged residents to allow the justice system to proceed without speculation or interference.

“We are heartbroken by what occurred and grateful for the swift actions of law enforcement and emergency responders,” said Pottawatomie County Commissioner Greg Rietzke. “Our thoughts are with the victim and her loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Investigation

The Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), is actively gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working to determine the events leading up to the attack. Authorities have indicated that the incident appears to be domestic in nature, and that the suspect and victim knew each other prior to the confrontation.

“We want to reassure the public that this was not a random act,” said Sheriff Shane Jager. “While incredibly disturbing, all signs point to this being an isolated, targeted incident. The suspect is in custody, and there is no ongoing threat to public safety.”

Court documents are expected to be filed early this week, and Blume is anticipated to make her first court appearance before a Pottawatomie County judge on Monday, June 24. The sheriff’s office has asked anyone with photos, video footage, or direct knowledge of the confrontation to come forward to aid in the prosecution.

Support for the Victim

In the wake of the assault, friends and community members have rallied in support of the victim, launching an online fundraiser to assist with her medical expenses and long-term recovery. Local organizations, including Wamego’s women’s advocacy groups and domestic violence counselors, are coordinating outreach efforts and offering resources to affected families.

“This kind of violence leaves a scar—not just on the victim, but on the entire community,” said Lisa Trent, director of the Pottawatomie County Crisis Response Center. “Our job now is to surround her with care, and to ensure justice is served swiftly and without compromise.”

The victim’s family has issued a brief statement through the hospital, expressing deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and requesting privacy as they focus on her recovery.

Looking Ahead

While Wamego continues to grapple with the emotional impact of Saturday’s events, community leaders are urging residents to come together in unity, compassion, and resilience.

“We will not let this moment define our town,” said Pastor Allen Ford of Wamego United Church. “We will care for the wounded, we will hold one another close, and we will not stop until justice is done.”

As the investigation unfolds, more information is expected to be released in the coming days. Meanwhile, a candlelight vigil is being planned for Wednesday evening at City Park to show solidarity with the victim and her family.

For anyone experiencing domestic violence or in need of crisis support, local resources are available through the Kansas Crisis Hotline at 1-888-END-ABUSE or by contacting the Pottawatomie County Victim Assistance Program.