Jasper, MO (September 12, 2024) – A fatal crash involving a trash truck occurred on Wednesday, September 11, on Route H, nine miles west of Jasper. The incident took place around 1:01 PM when the 2021 Freightliner trash truck, driven by 56-year-old Kim L. Melvin of Joplin, veered off the road, overcorrected, and overturned.
Melvin was pronounced dead at the scene by Jasper County Coroner James Harrison. A passenger, 65-year-old Darrall W. Taylor of Webb City, sustained serious injuries and was transported to Freeman West Hospital in Joplin by METS Ambulance.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the crash. Further details will be provided as the inquiry into the cause progresses.