Semi strikes blind woman, guide dog in NE Kansas

A northeast Kansas woman is in the hospital recovering after she and her guide dog were struck by a semi.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the crash took place at 14th and Church Street in Eudora (Douglas County) on Thursday.

KHP says 49-year-old Kristina Jenkins and her guide dog were walking westbound on 14th Street when she attempted to cross Church Street. A semi turning left off of 14th Street to head south on Church Street struck Jenkins.

She was trapped under the semi until a witness flagged down the driver and advised him that he had hit someone.

Jenkins was extricated by the driver and the witness. She was taken to Overland Park Regional with serious injuries.

WDAF reports doctors have been able to stabilize Jenkins while family, friends and neighbors rally by her bedside.

“She is one of the most genuinely nice people you will ever meet in your life. She is so good. She is such an example to many of us. Being around Tina makes me want to be better," close friend Rose House told the Kansas City news outlet.

Family and friends also say Jinkins is blind.

KHP says her guide dog was checked out by a local veterinarian and is fine.