Kirksville, MO (January 2, 2025) – A crash involving a box truck and an SUV partially blocked Highway 63 near Illinois St for approximately 45 minutes on Tuesday afternoon. The incident occurred shortly before 2:20 PM at the intersection of Highway 63 and Highway 11/Illinois St.
According to the Kirksville Police Department, a box truck driven by 49-year-old Kenneth Ferguson Jr. of Ewing was traveling eastbound on Illinois St when it attempted to cross Highway 63. Ferguson reportedly failed to yield and collided with a northbound SUV driven by 81-year-old Clifford Brown of Livonia. Nancy Brown, also 81 and from Livonia, was a passenger in the SUV.
Both Clifford and Nancy Brown sustained possible injuries and were transported by ambulance to Northeast Regional Medical Center. Authorities confirmed that both were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash, which likely mitigated the severity of their injuries. Kenneth Ferguson Jr. was uninjured.
Both vehicles were towed from the scene, and the roadway was cleared by approximately 3:00 PM. The Adair County Ambulance, Adair County Sheriff’s Office, Kirksville Police Department, Kirksville Fire Department, and Missouri State Highway Patrol all responded to the scene.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. Our thoughts are with those affected, and we wish the injured a full recovery.
Failure to Yield and Intersection Safety in Missouri
Accidents caused by failure to yield are a common hazard at busy intersections like Highway 63 and Illinois St in Kirksville. These crashes often result in significant injuries and property damage, particularly when high-speed vehicles are involved.
Missouri drivers are reminded to exercise caution when crossing or merging at intersections, ensuring they have a clear path before proceeding. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), failure-to-yield crashes are a leading cause of intersection-related accidents across the United States.
In the aftermath of a crash, documenting the incident, seeking prompt medical care, and cooperating with local authorities are essential steps. Injured parties may also consider seeking legal advice to explore options for compensation related to medical expenses and property damage.
If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, Local Accident Reports can help connect you with resources to support recovery and provide guidance on navigating the claims process.