Kansas City, MO — A Kearney math teacher and her 10-year-old son are recovering from serious injuries after a head-on crash caused by an alleged drunk driver late last month in Clay County. Officials confirmed that the driver, Scott Mathis, has been charged with driving while intoxicated following the collision.
A Frightening Moment on C Highway
On September 27, Lindsey Thomas was driving north on C Highway around 6 p.m. when a truck suddenly crossed the center line and struck her car head-on near the intersection of C Highway and W Highway.
Thomas, a beloved fifth-grade math teacher at Dogwood Elementary, recalled the terrifying moment the truck appeared in front of her.
“I remember seeing a license plate coming right at my head,” Thomas said.
According to FOX4 Kansas City, Thomas was following another vehicle that managed to swerve out of the way — but she had no time to react before the impact.
Immediately after the crash, Thomas screamed for her 10-year-old son, Leo, who was strapped into a booster seat in the back.
“I was terrified that I had lost him… Hearing him whimper was like, thank God, that he was going to be okay,” she said.
Driver Charged With DWI
Court documents identify the driver of the Ford F-150 as Scott Mathis, who allegedly admitted to drinking before driving. A breath test later showed his blood alcohol concentration was more than twice the legal limit.
Mathis has been charged in Clay County with driving while intoxicated and entered a not guilty plea on October 8. His next court hearing is scheduled for October 30 at 1:30 p.m.
FOX4 reached out to Mathis’ attorney, but as of this report, there has been no response.
“Your actions to have that drink before you drive can change the course of somebody’s life completely,” Thomas said.
Severe Injuries and Long Road to Recovery
Thomas and Leo both sustained significant injuries. Leo suffered intestinal injuries and has been temporarily sidelined from tackle football.
Thomas’s injuries were even more severe. She sustained multiple broken bones, including her right arm, foot, tibia, sternum, and nose.
“My surgeon described it as like stomping on a piece of chalk,” Thomas said.
Doctors say it may be months before Thomas can walk again or return to her classroom.
Community Support and Family Strength
As Thomas continues her recovery, she’s found immense support from her friends, colleagues, and family — especially from her father, Larry Miller, who has stepped in to care for her during her rehabilitation.
“It’s just overwhelming — the love and support that her friends have had for her,” Miller said.
“That’s my job,” he added.
Despite the pain, Thomas remains positive and is eager to return to her students.
“I love my kids,” she said. “I can’t wait to get back to them.”
A Message to Others
Thomas is using her experience to remind others — especially her students — about the importance of safety on the road.
“Be safe, wear your seat belt,” she said. “If you’re in a booster, my son was still in a booster — you don’t think it’s cool, but it can save your life.”
Her sister has created a GoFundMe campaign that has already raised over $8,200 to help with medical and recovery expenses.
What are your thoughts on this tragic but inspiring story of survival and resilience? Share your views in the comments below.
