Wright County, MO (February 28, 2025) – A tragic single-vehicle crash northwest of Mansfield claimed one life and left two others seriously injured on Thursday afternoon, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The accident occurred at approximately 3:20 p.m. on Highway EE, about three miles northwest of Mansfield. Authorities reported that a 1984 GMC pickup truck was traveling northbound when it veered off the right side of the road, striking a mailbox and a culvert. The vehicle then skidded, overturned, and crashed into a fence before coming to a stop.
The driver of the pickup, a 28-year-old man from Mansfield, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by Dr. Boss at 3:52 p.m. His remains were transported to Clinkingbeard Funeral Home in Ava.
Two passengers in the truck, a 20-year-old and a 23-year-old, both from Springfield, sustained serious injuries. One was airlifted by Life Flight to Cox South Hospital in Springfield, while the other was transported via ground ambulance to the same facility.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol noted that this marks Troop G’s sixth fatality of 2025, compared to one at this time in 2024. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances leading up to the crash.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased. We also extend our thoughts to the injured victims and hope for their full recovery.
Rollover Accidents in Missouri
Rollover crashes are among the most severe types of accidents, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. These crashes frequently occur when a vehicle leaves the roadway, encounters an obstacle, and flips due to the impact. In rural areas like Wright County, narrow roads, sharp curves, and roadside hazards can increase the likelihood of such accidents.
Single-vehicle rollovers can result from driver fatigue, excessive speed, mechanical failure, or environmental conditions. In this crash, the vehicle left the roadway and struck multiple objects before overturning, highlighting the dangers of losing control at high speeds.
Proper seatbelt use plays a critical role in reducing the severity of injuries in rollover accidents. Unfortunately, in this case, the driver and one passenger were not wearing seatbelts, which may have contributed to the severity of their injuries. Missouri law strongly encourages all vehicle occupants to buckle up to protect themselves in the event of a crash.
Losing a loved one in a preventable accident is devastating, and injured victims may face long recovery periods, costly medical bills, and emotional trauma. Those affected by serious crashes may have legal options to seek compensation for their losses.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a rollover accident, it’s important to explore available resources and support. Local Accident Reports is dedicated to connecting victims and their families with the assistance they need during these challenging times.