One person was killed and three others were injured Friday evening in a four-vehicle crash in Washington County.
The crash happened around 5:30 p.m. on October 30, 2026, on Missouri 185 north of Hamilton Hollow Road. A northbound 2018 Ram 1500 attempted to pass a 2019 Volvo XC90 by entering the southbound lane. The Ram then struck an oncoming 2010 Jeep Liberty head-on.
Both vehicles began spinning after the collision and traveled off opposite sides of the roadway. The Volvo struck debris from the crash and began slowing. A 2001 Chevrolet Silverado then struck the rear of the Volvo after its driver failed to notice the vehicle slowing.
The 60-year-old driver of the Jeep was pronounced dead at the scene. A 30-year-old passenger in the Jeep suffered serious injuries and was flown to a hospital for emergency medical treatment.
The driver of the Ram suffered moderate injuries, while a 7-year-old passenger suffered minor injuries. Both were taken by EMS to a local hospital.
The Jeep and Ram were totaled, while the Chevrolet and Volvo sustained minor damage.
Passing on a two-lane highway can be extremely dangerous when there is not enough time or space to safely return to the proper lane. Entering oncoming traffic can lead to head-on collisions, leaving other drivers little opportunity to react or avoid impact.
Drivers have a responsibility to check for approaching traffic and make sure the roadway is clear before attempting to pass another vehicle. Unsafe passing can cause serious crashes that affect multiple motorists, including those who were not involved in the initial collision.
When a driver’s unsafe passing causes a fatal crash, surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Others injured in the collision may also be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Reviewing the circumstances of the crash and the actions of each driver can help determine responsibility for the injuries and loss of life.
All facts reported upon herein are bsed on preliminary investigation and reporting done by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. If you have additional information that may be related to the prosecution of this case, please contact A.W. Smith Law.
