Three people were killed and three others were injured Wednesday morning in a two-vehicle crash in Maries County.The crash happened around 6:05 a.m. on October 14, 2026, on U.S. 63. A 2023 Buick Encore GX was traveling northbound and attempting to pass a tractor-trailer when it hydroplaned and collided with a southbound 2016 Ford F-150.
The driver of the Buick and a passenger were killed, along with a passenger in the Ford. All three were pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Ford suffered serious injuries. A passenger in the Ford and another passenger in the Buick suffered moderate injuries. All three were taken by EMS to local hospitals.
Both vehicles were totaled and towed from the scene. All six occupants were wearing safety devices at the time of the crash.
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle’s tires lose contact with the road because of water on the pavement. This can cause a driver to lose steering and braking control, sometimes within seconds. The risk can increase at higher speeds or during sudden maneuvers, including passing other vehicles.
Wet roads require drivers to adjust their speed, maintain a safe distance, and avoid unnecessary maneuvers that could cause a loss of control. Drivers should also pay attention to standing water and other roadway conditions that may make travel unsafe.
Serious crashes involving hydroplaning also highlight the importance of reasonable roadway safety. Proper drainage, road maintenance, and clear warnings about hazardous conditions can help reduce risks for motorists. When dangerous roadway conditions contribute to a crash, examining whether those hazards could have been prevented or addressed is an important part of determining responsibility.
Fatal crashes can also leave surviving family members with significant financial and personal losses. Depending on the circumstances, families may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim when another party’s negligence contributed to the collision. Reviewing the crash circumstances, roadway conditions, and available evidence can help determine whether legal responsibility exists.
All facts reported upon herein are based on preliminary investigation and reporting done by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. If you have additional information related to the prosecution of this case, please contact A.W. Smith Law.
