At approximately 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 20, 2025, a multi-vehicle collision occurred on Interstate 70 westbound at the 31-mile marker in Lafayette County, Missouri. The crash involved four vehicles, including two Harley Davidson motorcycles and two Jeep SUVs.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, traffic in the area came to a sudden stop due to a separate crash ahead. As vehicles began to slow, a 2012 Harley Davidson, operated by a 38-year-old man from Hannibal, collided with a 2014 Harley Davidson driven by a 55-year-old man from Columbia. The motorcycles were then struck by a westbound 2019 Jeep, which was followed by a second 2019 Jeep that became involved in the chain reaction.
Both motorcyclists sustained moderate injuries in the crash. They were transported by Sni Valley EMS to a local hospital for treatment. All other drivers were uninjured. Both Jeeps sustained minor to moderate damage and were driven from the scene.
The crash underscores the risks motorcyclists face when traveling in heavy interstate traffic, especially when unexpected slowdowns or secondary crashes occur. With less protection than other motorists, even low-speed collisions can result in significant injuries for riders.
Authorities remind drivers to remain alert for motorcycles, particularly when traffic conditions change suddenly. Maintaining a safe following distance and avoiding abrupt braking can help prevent chain-reaction crashes like this one.