Lafayette County, MO (February 9, 2025) – A tragic multi-vehicle accident occurred on I-70 Eastbound at the 53-mile marker on Friday afternoon, resulting in two fatalities. The collision took place around 1:59 p.m. and involved three commercial trucks.
According to authorities, a 2020 Volvo VNL850, driven by a 65-year-old man from Belton, SC, was traveling westbound on I-70 when it veered off the left side of the roadway, striking the median cables. The truck then crossed into the eastbound lanes, colliding head-on with a 2023 Volvo VNL driven by a 58-year-old man from Westminster, CO. The impact caused the eastbound truck to overturn. A third vehicle, a 2012 Volvo VNL driven by a 54-year-old man from Bowling Green, KY, sustained minor damage but was able to be driven from the scene.
Both the 65-year-old and 58-year-old drivers were pronounced dead at the scene at 2:09 p.m. by Lafayette County Deputy T. Gast. Their bodies were released to Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home. The third driver did not report any injuries.
The crash is under investigation by Troop A of the Missouri State Highway Patrol and marks the 5th fatal crash and 5th and 6th fatalities for the troop in 2025. The scene was also assisted by multiple officers from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Lafayette County Deputies, and local emergency services.
Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected by this heartbreaking accident.
Fatal Truck Accidents in Missouri
Truck accidents, particularly those occurring on major highways like I-70, often lead to devastating consequences due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Head-on collisions, such as the one in this Lafayette County incident, are among the deadliest types of crashes.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), Missouri experiences hundreds of fatal crashes involving large trucks each year. Contributing factors can include driver fatigue, mechanical failures, or sudden roadway hazards. The aftermath of such crashes is not only tragic for the families involved but also leads to significant disruptions on heavily traveled routes like I-70.
In fatal accidents, investigations are critical to determining the exact causes and ensuring accountability. Families of victims may seek legal recourse to cover funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a truck accident, contact Local Accident Reports for assistance and support during this difficult time.