Pineville, MO (February 24, 2025) – A tragic head-on collision on Interstate 49 near mile marker 8.8 claimed the lives of three people Sunday night, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 10:13 p.m. when a 2017 Nissan Rogue, driven by a 63-year-old woman from Bella Vista, AR, was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of I-49. The Nissan collided head-on with a 2021 Honda Civic, driven by a 33-year-old woman from Kansas City, KS.
Both drivers and a 43-year-old male passenger in the Honda were killed in the crash. All individuals were wearing seatbelts at the time of impact.
Emergency responders, including Trooper M. Coleman (#1320), Crash Team 3 Trooper J. Bondurant (#1468), and Trooper M. Wilson (#651), arrived at the scene to investigate. The victims were pronounced deceased at 10:45 p.m. by McDonald County Deputy Coroner Johnathan Fletcher. Their remains were transported to Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, MO.
Both vehicles sustained total damage and were towed by Gardner’s Towing.
Wrong-Way Crashes in Missouri
Head-on collisions, especially those involving wrong-way drivers, are among the most catastrophic types of crashes due to the extreme force of impact. Fatal crashes like this one on I-49 in McDonald County often result from driver impairment, disorientation, or reckless driving.
Wrong-way accidents are particularly deadly at highway speeds, as drivers often have little time to react before impact. Even with seatbelt use, the risk of fatal injuries in high-speed, head-on collisions remains high.
Families who lose loved ones in such tragic accidents may have legal options to seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of support, and emotional suffering under Missouri’s wrongful death laws. However, these cases can be complex, requiring thorough investigations into the cause of the crash.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a wrong-way accident, it is important to understand your rights. At Local Accident Reports, we provide support and resources to help victims’ families during this difficult time. Contact us today to explore your options for legal assistance and financial recovery.