Missouri Injury Attorneys Blog

In Randolph County, a resident of Moberly strikes the passenger side of another vehicle as they were attempting to make a turn onto an outer road which caused two other vehicles to be involved in this crash.

On November 23, 2011 at approximately 9:20 p.m., Christopher Duncan, age 57 and resident of Moberly, Missouri was operating a 1998 Chevrolet traveling in the eastbound direction of US 24. Ashley Lampe, age 18 and a resident of Salisbury, Missouri was operating a 2005 Ford traveling in the westbound direction of US 24. The first participant to be involved after the collision is Larissa Davis, age 22 and from Brookfield, Missouri was operating a 1999 Ford traveling in the northbound direction of US 24. Also, the second participant of this crash is Terrence Manley, age 34 and from Macon, Missouri was operating a 1997 Ford traveling in the northbound direction on US 24 as well.

At that said time and place, Ashley was traveling on US 24 in the westbound direction as she attempted to turn onto an east outer road in Moberly. Ashley pulled into the path of Christopher as he was traveling eastbound on that same road which caused Christopher to strike the passenger side of her vehicle. Ashley's vehicle then overturned and slid into Larissa's vehicle which then caused Larissa 's vehicle to slide backwards and collide with Terrence.

The only participant of this crash to receive medical attention is Christopher Duncan's passenger, Christina Duncan, age 12 and from Moberly. She received moderate injuries and was transported by the Randolph County ambulance to Moberly Regional Medical Center where she would be treated for her medical condition.

Ashley Lampe's 2005 Ford received extensive damages caused by this crash and was towed by Smith's Towing. Christopher's 1998 Chevrolet received extensive damages as well and was towed by Eb's Towing. Larissa's 1999 Ford obtained only moderate damages and was towed by Prather's Towing and Terrence's 1997 Ford managed to receive minor damages as he was able to drive from the scene of the crash.

This auto-crash was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and with the assistance of Trooper E. Ruckenbrod of Troop B.

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Continue reading "Driver Attempts Turn and Caused a Four-Vehicle Crash" »

In Montgomery County, a resident of Columbia was stopped due to a previous accident while another driver was unaware of the crash as he caused the six-vehicle accident.

On November 26, 2011 at approximately 10:47 a.m., Christopher Carrol, age 25 and a resident of Columbia, Missouri was operating a 2005 Chevrolet traveling in the eastbound direction of Interstate 70. The at-fault driver, Roger Wink, age 50 and a resident of Columbia, Missouri was operating a 2008 Ford traveling in the eastbound direction as well. The third vehicle to be hit after the collision is Lorraine Pope, age 52 and from White, Georgia was operating a 2007 International. The fourth vehicle is Deandre Thomas, age 18 and from Kansas City, Missouri as he was operating a 2000 Pontiac. The fifth vehicle is Clayton Newell, age 24 and from Columbia, Missouri as he was operating a 2007 Ford. The sixth and last vehicle to be involved in this crash is Greg Batenhoft, age 49 and from O'Fallon, Missouri as he was operating a 2006 Pontiac. All participants of this crash were traveling in the eastbound direction of Interstate 70.

At that said time and place, Christopher was traveling eastbound on I-70 as he was stopped in traffic for a previous crash at the 166.8 mile marker. That's when Roger was unaware of the accident and struck into Christopher which caused the vehicle to rotate and to strike into the vehicle of Lorraine Pope. Deandre Thomas took evasive action which caused his car to strike Clayton Newell's vehicle. Deandre continued on as he then struck into the vehicle of Greg Batenhoft, whom then slid into the rear of Lorraine Pope.

Christopher was taken to the University Hospital by the Calloway County emergency crew where he would receive medical treatment for his moderate injuries due to this crash. The occupant in the vehicle with Deandre Thomas is Herzon Navas, age 18 and from Kansas City, Missouri who was also transported to the University Hospital by the Calloway County emergency crew for his moderate injuries.

All participants of this crash were wearing their seat belts.

Christopher's 2005 Chevrolet received total damages and was towed by Buds. Roger's 2008 Ford received extensive damages and was towed by Vans. Lorraine's 2007 International and Clayton's 2007 Ford received minor damages and both were driven from the scene of the crash. Deandre's 2000 Pontiac and Greg's 2006 Pontiac both received total damages and were towed by Buds.

This auto-crash was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol with the assistance of Sergeant V. Ahrens and trooper, W. Adamson of troop F.

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Desoto, Missouri woman is moderately injured after another vehicle failed to yield, causing crash.

On November 26, 2011 at approximately 12:15 p.m., 42 year old Ramona Barker of Desoto, Missouri was operating a 1998 GMC Jimmy traveling westbound on Route M at Moss Hollow Road. At that said time and place, 18 year old Charles Bennett of St. Louis, Missouri was operating a 2007 Chevrolet HHR traveling northbound on Moss Hollow Road. Bennett then attempted to cross Route M from Moss Hollow Road and traveled into the path of Barker. Barker then had no chance to avoid Bennett and the two vehicles collided.

Ramona Barker was taken from the scene to St. Anthony's Medical Center by Rock Township Ambulance for treatment of moderate injuries she sustained in the crash. The at-fault driver, Charles Bennett, was not injured in the crash. Both drivers were wearing their safety devices at the time of the crash.

Both vehicles involved in the crash sustained extensive damage and were towed from the scene by Ives Towing. The at-fault driver did not possess insurance coverage for his vehicle at the time of the crash; it is unknown whether Ramona Barker possesses insurance coverage.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper C. Gullett of Troop C.

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Continue reading "Jefferson County T-Bone Crash Ends in Injury" »

Rear end crash in St. Charles County leads to injury for four Missouri residents.

On November 22, 2011 at approximately 9:08 p.m., 41 year old Kevin Sekhon was operating a 1999 Mercedes SUV traveling westbound on Highway 94, just east of Central School Road. Sekhon had no passengers in his vehicle.

At that said time and place, 17 year old Jake Ficken of St. Charles, Missouri was operating a 1997 Toyota Camry traveling westbound on Highway 94. Ficken's vehicle was occupied by himself and two passengers: 18 year old Jenna Haffer of St. Peters, Missouri and 18 year old Mackenzie Hofmeister of Cottleville, Missouri.

Both vehicles were traveling in the center lane of westbound Highway 94. Ficken struck the rear of Sekhon's vehicle, causing it to overturn and eject Sekhon. Ficken's vehicle came to a rest off the south edge of the roadway.

Kevin Sekhon was transported from the scene of the crash by St. Charles County Ambulance to Mercy Medical Center in Creve Coeur for treatment of serious injuries. Passengers Jenna Haffer and Mackenzie Hofmeister were both taken from the scene by St. Charles Ambulance to St. Joseph Health Center in St. Charles for treatment of minor injuries sustained in the crash. The at-fault driver, Jake Ficken, was also taken from the scene of the crash by St. Charles County Ambulance to St. Joseph Health Center in St. Charles with minor injuries.

Sekhon's vehicle sustained total damage in the crash and was towed from the scene by A1 Towing. The at-fault vehicle sustained extensive damage and was also towed from the scene of the crash by A1 Towing. The at-fault driver did possess insurance coverage for his vehicle at the time of the crash.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. D. Caldwell of Troop C and was assisted by Sgt. P. Kempke and Sgt. T. Potter also of Troop C.

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Continue reading "St. Charles County Crash Ends in Serious Injury for Missouri Driver" »

US 36 crash involving two vehicles ends in fatality for one Hamilton, Missouri woman.

On November 21, 2011 at approximately 8:35 a.m., 61 year old Joan Holman of Hamilton, Missouri was operating a 2003 Nissan Altima traveling westbound on US 36 at the intersection of Sharp Road, about one mile west of Stewartsville. Hamilton's vehicle was occupied by herself and one passenger: 82 year old Veta Holman also of Hamilton, Missouri.

At that said time and place, 30 year old Brandon Defreece of Plattsburg, Missouri was operating a 2003 Dodge Ram traveling northbound on Sharp Road. Defreece then attempted to cross westbound US 36 and failed to yield to the Hamilton vehicle. Hamilton had no other option and struck Defreece's vehicle on the rear passenger side. The Holman vehicle came to a rest on Sharp Road. Defreece's vehicle came to a rest west of Sharp Road.

Occupant Veta Holman was taken from the scene of the crash by Dekalb-Clinton EMS to Heartland Regional Medical Center where she was later pronounced dead by Dr. Sheth at 11:52 a.m. Driver, Joan Holman, was also transported by Dekalb-Clinton EMS to Heartland Regional Medical Center for treatment of minor injuries. The at-fault driver, Brandon Defreece, was uninjured in the crash. All parties involved were wearing their safety devices at the time of the crash.

The Holman vehicle sustained total damage in the crash and was towed from the scene by Walker's Collision Repair. Defreece's vehicle sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene of the crash by the owner. Both individuals possessed insurance coverage for their vehicles at the time of the crash.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper A.J. Webb of Troop H.

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Continue reading "Dekalb County Crash Ends in Fatality for One Missouri Resident" »

Laclede County head-on crash results in fatality for one and serious injury for three Missouri residents.

On November 20, 2011 at approximately 9:40 a.m., 70 year old Harold Gleason of Niangua, Missouri was operating a 2002 Mercury traveling northbound on Highway 5, about five miles south of Lebanon. Gleason's vehicle was occupied by himself and two passengers: 66 year old Paula Gleason and 7 year old Hannah Gleason, both also of Niangua, Missouri.

At that said time and place, 42 year old James Metro of Grovesprings, Missouri was operating a 1999 Hyundai traveling southbound on Highway 5. Metro then attempted to overtake another vehicle and struck the Gleason vehicle head-on. Both vehicles came to rest off the east side of the roadway.

Driver Harold Gleason and passenger/wife Paula Gleason were transported from the scene of the crash by St. John's Ambulance to Cox South Hospital in Springfield with serious injuries. Gleason's other passenger, 7 year old Hannah, was also transported from the scene of the crash by St. John's Ambulance to Cox South Hospital in Springfield for treatment of moderate injuries. The at-fault driver, James Metro, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash and was transported to Holman-Howe Funeral Home in Lebanon by funeral home personnel.

All parties involved in this crash were wearing their safety devices except for the deceased, James Metro. Both vehicles sustained total damage in the crash and were towed form the scene by C&S Towing in Lebanon. The at-fault driver did possess insurance coverage for his vehicle at the time of the crash; however, it is unknown whether the Gleason's vehicle was insured.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper Jason Riggs and was assisted by Cpl. Mike Mobley both of Troop I.

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Head-on crash occurring on US Highway 54 ends in fatality for one and serious injury for two.

On November 20, 2011 at approximately 2:33 a.m., 56 year old Larry Huston of Eldon, Missouri was operating a 2004 Ford E250 van, traveling westbound on US 54, about .5 of a mile west of Route D. Huston had no passengers in his vehicle. At that said time and place, 29 year old Marta Vaca of Kingdom City, Missouri was operating a 1995 Dodge Ram.

Vaca and her passenger, 29 year old Jerry Friend of Fulton, Missouri, were traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of US 54. Vaca drove her vehicle directly into Huston, head-on.

Larry Huston was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash by Cole County Coroner Carl Doerhoff at 4:00 a.m., and was taken to Freeman Mortuary in Jefferson City. Passenger Jerry Friend was taken from the scene to Capital Region Hospital in Jefferson City, Missouri for treatment of serious injuries he sustained in the crash. The at-fault driver, Marta Vaca, was taken from the scene of the crash to University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri with serious injuries. The at-fault driver was the only individual involved who was wearing their safety device.

Both vehicles received total damage in the crash and were towed from the scene by Tow Pro in Holts Summit, Missouri. It is unknown whether either driver possessed insurance coverage at the time of the crash.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop F, Cole County Sheriff's Office and Jefferson City Police Department. This is Troop F's 54th fatality for the year of 2011.

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Head-on crash on MO 28 results in death for all three individuals involved.

On November 18, 2011 at approximately 9:22 p.m., 24 year old James Stewart of Dixon, Missouri was operating a 1997 Acura traveling southbound on MO 28, about 5 miles south of Dixon. Stewart had no passengers at the time. At that said time and place, 26 year old Bradley Shackleford of Dixon, Missouri was operating a 2004 Ford Mustang traveling northbound on MO 28. Shackleford's vehicle was occupied by himself and 26 year old passenger, Chad McMeekan of Dixon, Missouri.

Shackleford crossed the center line and struck Stewart nearly head-on. Shackleford's vehicle traveled off the east side of the roadway, overturned several times, and came to a rest in a field where it caught fire. Stewart's vehicle traveled off the west side of the roadway, and also caught fire.

Driver James Stewart was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash by Pulaski County Coroner Mikel Hartness at 10:28 p.m. and was taken to Long-Kloepple Funeral Home in Dixon, Missouri. The at-fault driver, Bradley Shackleford, was also pronounced dead at the scene of the crash by Pulaski County Coroner Mike Hartness at 10:27 p.m. and was taken to Long-Kloepple Funeral Home in Dixon, Missouri. Shackleford's passenger, Chad McMeekan, was air lifted by St. John's Lifeline to University Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 3:37 a.m. by Dr. Wanek. It is unknown whether any of the individuals involved in this crash were wearing their safety devices.

Both vehicles involved sustained total damage in the crash and were towed from the scene by Jack's Wrecker Service. It is unknown whether either driver possessed insurance coverage for their vehicle at the time of the crash.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Darryl Suhr and was assisted by Cpl. Steven Cunningham both of Troop I. This was Troop I's 34th fatality crash for the year of 2011.

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In Lawrence County, a resident of Willard, Missouri lost control of his vehicle, over-turned, and was then struck by three other vehicles in the duration of the crash.

On November 14, 2011 at approximately 1:30 a.m., 23 year old Petar Kuzmanov, and resident of Williard, Missouri was operating a 2008 Toyota Scion and traveling in the westbound direction of Interstate 44. Hristo Hristov, age 25, and 20 year old Lauren Weiner, both residents of Springfield, Missouri were the two other occupants in Petar's vehicle. The first vehicle to strike Petar is Jeremy Hopkins, age 26 and from Cowden, Illinois. Jeremy was operating a 2011 Dodge Ram Pick-up. The second vehicle was Amy Rhoades, age 21 and from Herrick, Illinois who was operating a 2009 Dodge Caliber. The third and last vehicle to collide with Petar is Larisa Morosanu, age 24 and from Chicago, Illinois. Larisa was operating a 2007 Volvo Tractor Trailer. All participants of this crash were traveling in the westbound direction on Interstate 44.

At that said time and place, Petar was traveling westbound along I-44, about 1 ½ miles west of Halltown. This accident occurred as Petar ran off the interstate and into the median where he lost control of his vehicle. As Petar traveled back onto the interstate his vehicle then over-turned onto its top. The vehicle began sliding on its top and then was struck by Jeremy Hopkins. After Jeremy struck Petar's vehicle, it slid and hit the bridge where Petar was then struck a second time by Amy Rhoades. After Amy collided with Petar, his vehicle struck the bridge again and was then struck a third and final time by Larisa Morosanu. Finally Petar's vehicle came to rest on the roadway, still over-turned on its top.

Jeremy Hopkins, Amy Rhoades, and Larisa Morosanu did not seek medical attention from this crash. As for the occupants in Petar's vehicle, Lauren and Hristo, they both received moderate injuries and were transported by ambulance to St. Johns Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. Driver, Petar, sustained very serious injuries was transported by air ambulance to St. Johns Hospital in Springfield, Missouri where he was treated for his medical condition.

Petar's 2008 Toyota Scion received total damages due to this crash as Jeremy Hopkin's 2011 Dodge Ram Pick-up received extensive damages. Both Amy Rhoades and Larisa Morosanu's vehicles received moderate damages from this crash and all vehicles were towed by Bielliers Wrecker.

This auto-crash was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and with the assistance of trooper, Bryant May of troop D.

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When one driver crossed the center line, a head-on collision and two deaths resulted in St. Francois County on Highway 67.

On November 16, 2011 at approximately 11:10 P.M., 41-year-old Rickey Mowery from Ironton, Missouri was operating a 1991 Buick Park Avenue heading southbound on Highway 67 at Missouri Route 8. At same time and place, Jeremy Hansell, age 31, from Bonne Terre, Missouri was heading northbound on Highway 67. He had one passenger - Jackelin Rincon, age 28, from Bonne Terre, Missouri.

The crash occurred as Hansell crossed over the center line, heading northbound in the southbound lanes on Highway 67, and crashed into Mowery in a head-on collision.

Rickey Mowery was killed and pronounced dead at the scene of the crash by Coroner Jim Coplin. He was taken from the scene of the crash to the morgue at Mineral Area Regional Medical Center in Farmington, Missouri. Jackelin Rincon, passenger of at-fault driver Jeremy Hansell, was also pronounced dead at the scene of the crash by Dr. John Garcia. She was transported from the scene of the crash to Parkland North Hospital in Bonne Terre, Missouri. Jeremy Hansell suffered serious injuries and was transported from the scene of the crash by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur, St. Louis. Neither drivers nor the passenger were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Mowery's Buick received total damages and was towed from the scene of the crash by Buckley Towing Service from Park Hill, Missouri. Hansell's Chevrolet also received total damages and towed from the scene of the crash by Buckley Towing Service.

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Missouri Highway 160 head-on crash ends in moderate injury for one passenger.

On November 13, 2011 at approximately 6:00 a.m., 36 year old Cherice Harper of Kissee Mills, Missouri was operating a 1995 Oldsmobile van traveling westbound on Highway 160, about six miles north of Forsyth. Harper's vehicle was occupied by herself and one passenger: 34 year old Shannon Lee of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

At that said time and place, 17 year old Lucas Boone of Forsyth, Missouri was operating a 1996 Ford F150 truck traveling eastbound on Highway 160. Boone crossed the center line and struck the Harper vehicle nearly head on.

Passenger Shannon Lee was transported by ambulance to Skaggs Hospital in Branson, Missouri for treatment of moderate injuries sustained in the crash. The driver of Lee's vehicle, Cherice Harper, was uninjured in the crash. The at-fault driver, Lucas Boone, was also uninjured in the crash. All individuals involved were wearing their safety devices at the time of the crash.

Harper's vehicle sustained moderate damage in the crash and was towed from the scene by Carl's Towing in Forsyth, Missouri. The at-fault vehicle received total damage and was towed from the scene of the crash by Jim's Towing in Forsyth, Missouri. Both drivers possessed insurance coverage for their vehicles at the time of the crash.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway patrol Trooper J. Henderson of Troop D.

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Continue reading "Taney County Head-on Crash Ends in Injury for One" »

When a 15-year-old driver attempted to merge left, another driver had to steer out of the way. She crashed into another driver and a guard rail and suffered moderate injuries as a result.

On November 14, 2011 at approximately 11:55 A.M., 51-year-old Yvonnda Booker from St. Louis, Missouri was operating a 2009 Mitsubishi Galante traveling northbound on Interstate 55 north of Lindbergh Blvd. She had one passenger - Darell Booker, age 56, from St. Louis, Missouri. At said time and place, Edward Bak, age 39, was also traveling northbound on Interstate 55 in a 2006 Chevrolet Colorado and Noah Brandt, age 15, was operating a 2011 Volkswagon Golf heading northbound. It is unknown whether the at-fault, permit driver, Noah Brandt, had any passengers at the time of the crash.

Before the crash, Booker was in the left merge lane from Lindbergh Blvd. to northbound Interstate 55 when Brandt was in the right merge lane at the same location. Bak was in lane four. Brandt was inattentive and attempted to merge left. Booker steered to the left to avoid contact with Brandt and as a result the left front of her vehicle crashed in to the right rear of Bak. Booker continued off the roadway and struck a guard rail. Bak then spun clockwise and struck the left side of Brandt's vehicle. All drivers were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Yvonnda Booker suffered moderate injuries and was transported from the scene of the crash to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri by Mehlville Ambulance. Her passenger, Darell Booker also suffered moderate injuries and was transported from the scene of the crash to Mercy Hospital by Mehlville Ambulance. Bak and Brandt did not suffer injuries as a result of the crash.

Booker's Mitsubishi received moderate damages and was towed from the scene of the crash by Miner's Towing from Fenton, Missouri. Bak's Chevrolet Colorado received moderate damages and was towed from the scene of the crash by Fast Track Towing and Recovery from St. Louis, Missouri. Brandt made personal arrangements to have the vehicle towed.

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Continue reading "Permit Driver Causes Three Car Crash on Interstate 55 in St. Louis County" »

Warsaw, Missouri resident fatally injured in head-on crash, two seriously injured.

On November 12, 2011 at approximately 9:00 p.m., 20 year old Joshua Groves of Sedalia, Missouri was operating a 1998 Dodge traveling northbound on US 65, about 1/10 mile north of Main Street in Warsaw. Groves' vehicle was occupied by himself and one passenger: 22 year old Brandon Debates of Warsaw, Missouri.

At that said time and place, 47 year old Thomas Belanger of Warsaw, Missouri was operating a 2001 Chevrolet traveling southbound on US 65. Belanger crossed the centerline and crashed into Groves' vehicle head- on. Groves' vehicle came to rest in the roadway facing southeast while Belanger's vehicle came to rest on the shoulder facing northeast.

Passenger Brandon Debates was pronounced dead at the scene by Benton County Coroner, Jim Miller. Driver Joshua Groves was transported by Staff for Life to University Medical Center in Columbia for treatment of serious injuries he sustained in the crash. The at-fault driver, Thomas Belanger, was also transported by Staff for Life to University Hospital in Columbia with serious injuries.

Both vehicles sustained total damage in the crash and were towed from the scene by Precision Tow. All parties involved were wearing their safety devices at the time of the crash. Joshua Groves possessed insurance coverage on his vehicle at the time of the crash; however, it is unknown if the at-fault driver possessed insurance coverage.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper D.C. Kissinger of Troop A and was assisted by Sgt. B.L. Daniel, Cpl. J.K. Riley, Trooper R.J. Chapman, Benton County Sheriff's Office, Warsaw Police Department, Warsaw Fire and Warsaw/Lincoln Ambulance. Investigation of this crash continues. No arrest information currently.

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When one driver failed to yield to another before crossing MO Hwy 6, he crashed into oncoming traffic. The victim driver and his passenger suffered serious injuries and was transported to the Cameron Regional Medical Center by ambulance.

On November 11, 2011 at approximately 1:30pm, 56-year-old Jeffrey Swartz from Mooresville, Missouri was traveling westbound in a 2006 Ford F250 on MO 6 just three miles west of Gallatin, Missouri. Nathan Hampton from Chillicothe, Missouri, age 28, was operating a 1999 Peterbuilt Gravel Hauler at same time and place heading southbound. Swartz had one passenger - Toi Swartz, age 56, from Mooresville, Missouri.

The crash occurred as Swartz was approaching the intersection of Route DD on MO 6, and Hampton was crossing MO 6 after being stopped at a stop sign on Route DD. The vehicles collided in the westbound lane. Both vehicles slid off of the southwest corner of the intersection and then came to rest upright. Jeffrey and Toi Swartz were not wearing their seatbelts. Nathan Hampton was wearing his seatbelt.

Jeffrey and Toi Swartz suffered moderate injuries and were transported from the scene of the crash by Daviess CO EMS to Cameron Regional Medical Center. Nathan Hampton suffered minor injuries and was also transported from the scene of the crash to Daviess CO EMS to Cameron Regional Hospital.

Swartz's Ford F250 received total damage and was towed from the scene of the crash by Bridgeman's Wrecker Service of Altamont, Missouri. Hampton's Peterbuilt received extensive damages and was towed by Bridgeman's Wrecker Service from the scene of the crash.

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Missouri woman suffered moderate injuries after another vehicle failed to yield, causing the two vehicles to crash.

On November 8, 2011 at approximately 5:31 p.m., 44 year old Lee Terre of Higginsville, Missouri was operating a 2009 Toyota traveling westbound on US 50 at Front Street. At that time and place, 18 year old Edgar Rodriguez Lemus was operating a 2004 Nissan traveling southbound on Front Street.

Lemus then pulled onto US 50 in front of Lee's vehicle. Lee had no option to avoid Lemus, causing the two vehicles to crash.

Terre Lee was transported from the scene of the crash to Bothwell Hospital with moderate injuries. The at-fault driver, Lemus, was also transported from the scene to Bothwell Hospital for treatment of minor injuries he sustained in the crash. Lee was wearing her safety device at the time of the crash; however, Lemus was not.

Lee's vehicle received extensive damage in the crash and was towed from the scene by State Fair Tow. The at-fault vehicle received moderate damage and was also towed from the scene of the crash by State Fair Tow. Both drivers possessed insurance coverage for their vehicles at the time of the crash.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper S.R. Schapp of Troop A. Investigation of this crash continues.

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When one driver loses control on a curve, he crashes into oncoming traffic and is killed as a result on Highway 19 four miles south of Eminence, Missouri.

On November 7, 2011 at approximately 6:40 am, 50-year-old Randy Martin of Eminence, Missouri was traveling northbound on Highway 19 just four miles south of Eminence in a 2007 Ford. At said time and place, Kenneth Bland, age 50, from Eminence, Missouri was operating a 1997 Chevrolet and heading southbound on Highway 19. Neither of the drivers had passengers.

The crash occurred as Martin lost control on a curve and crossed the center line into the opposite lane. Bland then crashed into the side of Martin's vehicle. Neither of the drivers was wearing seatbelts.

Bland suffered serious injuries and was transported from the scene of the crash to St. John's Hospital in Springfield, Missouri by ambulance. Martin was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash by coroner, Regina Voyles. The next-of-kin was notified and he was transported to Duncan Funeral Home in Mountain View, Missouri. Bland was unable to be tested for alcohol as required by law due to his medical condition.

Martin's Ford received total damage and was towed from the scene of the crash by Tyler's Auto Repair of Eminence, Missouri. Bland's Chevrolet received total damage and was towed from the scene of the crash by Tyler's Auto Repair as well. It is unknown whether both drivers had auto insurance at the time of the crash or not.

This investigation was led by Sergeant J. S. Brumble and assisted by Trooper B.D. Foster of Troop G. This was the 30th fatality of the year for Troop G.

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Continue reading "Eminence Resident Killed in Two Car Crash in Shannon County" »

In St. Charles County, four vehicles are in a back-to-back collision as one driver fails to stop cautiously before the light signal.

On November 5, 2011 at approximately 3:15 p.m., 29 year old Michael McLaughin and resident of Troy, Missouri was operating a 1997 Mercury Mountaineer traveling in the westbound direction on Highway 94. The second driver, 58 year old Christine Arnold of St. Charles, Missouri was operating a 2007 Ford Expedition. A third driver, 27 year old Kevin Messick of St. Louis, Missouri was operating a 2001 Nisson Pathfinder and the fourth driver involved in the crash is 43 year old Kristine Garrison of St. Louis, Missouri. All participants of this back-to-back collision were traveling in the westbound direction on Highway 94 on O'Fallon Road.

At that said time and place, Garrison, Messick, and Arnold were stopped at the red electric signal on Highway 94 at O'Fallon Road. Approaching the same traffic signal, McLaughin failed to notice and struck into the rear of Christine Arnold. Crashing into Arnold caused her to strike Messick who then struck Garrison causing a back-to-back four vehicle collision.

Only two out of the four participants of this crash required medical attention. The at-fault driver, Michael McLaughin received serious injuries due to this crash as he was transported to Mercy Hospital by the St. Charles County Ambulance. Also, Christine Arnold sustained moderate injuries and was also taken to Mercy Hospital by the St. Charles County Ambulance.

All the participants were wearing their safety devices for the duration of this crash except for Michael McLaughlin.

Michael McLaughin's 1997 Mercury Mountaineer and Christine Arnold's 2007 Ford Expedition received moderate damages and both were towed by A1 Towing. Both Kevin Messick and Kristine Garrison's vehicles received only minor damages and were able to be driven from the scene of the crash.

This auto-crash was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol with the assistance of trooper J. Watson of Troop C.

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Wrongful death suit is filed after Missouri woman died from complications caused by mold inhalation at her job.

On April 17, 2011, Doris Hentz died of hypersensitivity pneumonitis which is a lung inflammation from inhaling substances such as mold. Hentz worked as an accounts receivable clerk for eight years at Overland City Hall. Hentz's husband has filed a wrongful death suit seeking unspecified damages in St. Louis County Circuit Court in Clayton. The couple has three children: 24, 19 and 18.

According to the wrongful death lawsuit, sometime before October 2009, "extensive mold contamination" was found in the building where Hentz worked. Workers on Doris Hentz floor had complained about allergies and air quality. Officials arranged for removal of the mold but would not explain the presence of workers in hazardous-material suits. According to the attorney who filed the suit, "they never informed the employees what was going on, and they asked and they weren't given any information". The wrongful death suit alleges carelessness in not warning and removing employees and testing their health.

Alderman Lisa Ridolfi, who was the city's finance director for about 25 years, worked in the building part time during the mold removal. She claimed she thought the mold was contained to a third floor bathroom. She stated that when Rivercrest (which did the mold remediation) was asked if it was safe for workers to stay, they said yes. Ridolfi said Hentz had a chronic cough, and would cough so hard sometimes that she would go into the bathroom and throw up.

The suit accuses the city; McGrath Environmental Associates (which performed mold testing); Rivercrest Restoration (which did the mold remediation); and Mayor Michael Schneider, City Administrator Jason McConachi and Finance Director Nancy Schoemaker.

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Poplar Bluff, Missouri residents were seriously injured in a Butler County crash involving two vehicles.

On November 4, 2011 at approximately 5:15 p.m., 54 year old Doris Stallings of Poplar Bluff, Missouri was operating a 1992 Chrysler Voyager traveling westbound on Route PP, approximately .1 mile west of Poplar Bluff. Stallings did not have any passengers in her vehicle at this time.

At the above said time and place, 21 year old Sunny McGowen of Poplar Bluff, Missouri was operating a 1998 Ford Mustang traveling northbound on Route PP. McGowen's vehicle was occupied by himself and two passengers: 19 year old Courtney Payne and 1 year old Austin McGowen, both of Poplar Bluff.

McGowen then pulled his vehicle into the path of Doris Stallings. Stallings had no way of avoiding a crash and struck McGowen's vehicle.

Driver Doris Stallings was taken from the scene of the crash by ambulance to Poplar Bluff Regional Hospital with serious injuries. The at-fault driver received only minor injuries in the crash and refused medical treatment at the scene. Passenger Courtney Payne was taken by ambulance to Poplar Bluff Regional Hospital for treatment of serious injuries sustained in the crash. 1 year old passenger, Austin McGowen, was uninjured in the crash.

Stallings' vehicle sustained total damage in the crash and was towed from the scene by Rushings Towing. The at-fault vehicle also sustained total damage and was towed from the scene of the crash by Woolards Towing. The at-fault driver did not possess insurance coverage for his vehicle at the time of the crash. Doris Stallings was not wearing her safety device at the time of the crash; however, all other parties involved were wearing their safety devices.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Cpl. R.C. Dye of Troop E and was assisted by Trooper N.L. Wheeles.

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Callaway County head-on crash ends in moderate injuries for a Rhineland, Missouri woman.

On November 3, 2011 at approximately 5:05 p.m., 47 year old Joy Vagedes of Rhineland, Missouri was operating a 1999 Saturn traveling eastbound on Rt. O, approximately .5 mile east of Green Acres Bar. At that said time and place, 26 year old Benjamin French of Fulton, Missouri was operating a 2000 Ford Ranger traveling westbound on Rt. O. The crash occurred as French traveled across the center line and struck Vagedes in the driver's side door.

Driver Joy Vagedes was transported from the scene by Callaway EMS to St. Mary's Hospital for treatment of moderate injuries sustained in the crash. The at-fault driver, Benjamin French, was uninjured in the crash. Vagedes was not wearing her safety device at the time of the crash.

Both vehicles involved received total damage in the crash and were towed from the scene by Tom and Steve's Towing. Both drivers possessed insurance coverage for their vehicles at the time of the crash.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper A. Armstrong of Troop F.

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In Buchanan County, one man is tending to a previous accident and providing medical attention as the other driver is unaware and causes another auto-crash.

On November 2, 2011 at approximately 5:58 p.m., Heath Graham, age 33 and a resident of Plattsburg, Missouri was operating a 2009 Chevrolet Ambulance and was parked facing southbound on Interstate 29. The other driver, Nicolas Rosales, age 49 and a resident of Olathe, Kansas was operating a 1994 Toyota Corolla traveling in the southbound direction Interstate 29.

At that said time and place, Heath parked in the passing lane facing southbound as he was providing medical treatment to the previous accident. Heath was standing at the rear of his vehicle as Nicolas was traveling southbound and failed to notice the parked ambulance vehicle. Nicolas then struck Heath and his vehicle. As Heath's vehicle finally came to a rest on its wheels, it was partially in the driving lane and partially in the passing lane of Interstate 29 and was facing east. Heath came to a rest in the grass median after being stuck by Nicolas' vehicle. Nicolas' vehicle then came to a rest on its wheels facing south.

Heath sustained minor injuries from this crash and was taken by NRad EMS to Heartland Regional Medical Center. Nicolas received minor injuries as well and was then transported by patrol vehicle of Troop H Headquarters to Heartland Regional Medical Center were both would receive medical attention due to the crash.

The 2009 Chevrolet Ambulance received moderate damages from this crash and was driven from the scene. Nicolas' 1994 Toyota Corolla also received moderate damages as his vehicle was towed by All Star Towing.

This auto-crash was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and with the assistance of trooper K. Jefferies of Troop H.

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The A.W. Smith Law Firm helps to provide nurturing and safe after school care for public housing kids through a $500 donation to Granny's House.

The A.W. Smith Law Firm presented a $500 check to Granny's House, an after school care center based in Columbia, Missouri, dedicated to providing a nurturing and loving environment for public housing kids. Granny's House has a vision to reach the children of Columbia's inner city before their lives are shaped by destructive behaviors or become entangled in the legal system. They provide love, support, a safe place to play or do homework and an atmosphere of hope and calm in the chaotic worlds of these children.

The A.W. Smith Law Firm, a Columbia, Missouri personal injury law firm, is making a dedicated effort to fulfill its social responsibility by addressing the needs of the community and those in surrounding areas. The A.W. Smith Law Firm grants charitable contributions to organizations in the Mid-Missouri area that have dedicated themselves to promoting the welfare of their communities and the people in them. All of this is made possible through the hard work and generosity of The A.W. Smith Law Firm staff, in particular its president, Aaron W. Smith (also known as "A.W.").

"Making this donation means a lot to me," stated A.W. Smith, "Granny's House is an organization which is exponentially important in the lives of the children they touch. This is our opportunity as a community to make an impact in the lives of these children before it is too late."

About The A.W. Smith Law Firm, P.C.:

The A.W. Smith Law Firm is a skilled and experienced personal injury firm located in Columbia, Missouri. The firm's legal knowledge, lawyer strong work-ethic, and formidable trial advocacy and litigation techniques mean they are able to succeed in cases involving even the most complex claims and confusing facts, obtaining the recovery and compensation their clients need to begin rebuilding their lives. The A.W. Smith Law Firm is dedicated to helping accident victims all across the Midwest. For more information on The A.W. Smith Law Firm, visit their website: www.awsmithlaw.com

About Granny's House:

Granny's House is a safe, nurturing place where public housing kids can go each day after school to see values, manners and God's love in action. At Granny's House they believe there is a "window of opportunity" now to make a permanent and very real change in children's lives. They try to provide the things a grandmother might provide: nourishing food, a listening ear, guidance when needed, prayer, time to read a book together or to watch someone do a cartwheel. It's a comforting place where there is always someone "home". For more information, to volunteer or to donate to Granny's House, visit their website: www.grannyshouse.org

When one driver rear-ended another at a high rate of speed, the victim's two passengers suffered serious injuries after the car overturned. They were transported to the University Hospital by an ambulance from Montgomery County.

On October 30, 2011 at approximately 7:20am, 59-year-old Myron Couch from Wentzville, Missouri was heading westbound on I-70 .4 miles west of Route N in a 2002 Ford F150. At said time and place, Roy Meserole, age 33, from Evansville, Indiana was operating a 1991 Chevrolet Scotsdale and was also traveling westbound on I-70. Couch had two passengers - Katherine Crenshaw, age 58, from Wentzville, Missouri and Thomas Couch, age 20, from Wentzville, Missouri. Meserole did not have any passengers at the time of the crash.

The crash occurred when Meserole struck the rear of Couch at a high rate of speed. Couch's vehicle traveled off the roadway, overturned, and came to rest on the north outer road. Couch was wearing his seatbelt, but Crenshaw was not.

Couch suffered serious injuries and was transported from the scene of the crash to University Hospital in Columbia, Missouri by the Montgomery ambulance. Katherine Crenshaw also suffered serious injuries and was transported from the scene of the crash by the Montgomery ambulance to the University Hospital. Meserole did not suffer any injuries as a result of the crash.

Couch's Ford F150 received total damage and was towed from the scene of the crash by Bud's Towing from New Florence, Missouri. Meserole's Chevrolet received minor damages and was driven from the scene of the crash.

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Missouri Route 47 construction zone crash in Lincoln County ends in injury for two Missouri residents.

On November 1, 2011 at approximately 6:50 p.m., 52 year old James Schaper of Troy, Missouri was operating a 2003 Buick Lesabre and was stopped in traffic on eastbound on Missouri Route 47, about .3 mile west of Fairgrounds Road. Directly behind him was 42 year old Daniel Clark of Troy, Missouri who was operating a 2008 Cadillac CTS. Behind Clark was 73 year old Francis Biron of Troy, Missouri who was operating a 2006 Buick Lucerne. All vehicles were stopped in traffic in a construction zone.

At that time and place, 19 year old Alexander Ronsick of Moscow Mills, Missouri was operating a 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser traveling eastbound on Missouri Route 47 directly behind the above said vehicles which were stopped in traffic. Ronsick failed to stop and the front of his vehicle struck the rear of Francis Biron's vehicle. Biron's vehicle was then pushed into the rear of Clark's vehicle. Clark's vehicle was then pushed into the rear of a fourth vehicle driven by Schaper.

Francis Biron (driver of the vehicle that was initially struck) was taken from the scene of the crash to St. Joseph Hospital West by Lincoln County Ambulance with moderate injuries. The at-fault driver, Alexander Ronsick, was also taken to St. Joseph Hospital West by Lincoln County Ambulance for treatment of moderate injuries he received in the crash. The other two drivers involved in the crash were uninjured.

Biron and Ronsick's vehicles both sustained extensive damage in the crash and were towed from the scene by Brian's Towing. Clark's vehicle (vehicle 3) sustained moderate damage and was towed from the scene of the crash by Brian's Towing. The fourth vehicle, driven by James Schaper, sustained only minor damage in the crash and was able to be driven from the scene.

The at-fault driver was not wearing his safety device at the time of the crash, however all other drivers were. Biron and Clark did possess insurance coverage for their vehicles at the time of the crash; however, it is unknown if Schaper or Ronsick possessed insurance coverage.

This crash was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Corporal S. Miller of Troop C.

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