Clay County, MO (August 27, 2026) – A serious accident involving a Ford Focus and a patrol Ford Explorer occurred late on Tuesday night, August 25, on northbound I-35 at mile marker 7.4 in Clay County. The Focus drifted onto the left shoulder and struck the Explorer, which was parked with emergency equipment activated.
A 51-year-old Lee’s Summit man was outside the passenger side of the Explorer when he was struck. He suffered serious injuries and was taken to North Kansas City Hospital for treatment. A 25-year-old Kansas City woman driving the Focus had minor injuries and was also taken to the hospital.
Both vehicles had extensive damage and were towed from the highway.
Emergency units handled the aftermath, and the investigation into the collision remains ongoing.
Our thoughts are with both injured people as they recover.
What Should Drivers Do When a Vehicle Is Stopped on the Shoulder?
Drivers approaching a stopped vehicle on a highway shoulder should reduce speed and move to another lane when safe and practical. This gives people outside a vehicle more room and lowers the risk of a roadside wreck. If changing lanes is not possible, drivers should slow down and provide as much space as conditions allow.
People who must leave a vehicle should stay as far from moving traffic as possible. Hazard lights can make a stopped vehicle easier to see, especially at night or during poor visibility. Emergency equipment or other visible signals may also alert approaching drivers to a roadside hazard.
Highway shoulders can be dangerous because traffic may pass at high speeds. Drivers should stay focused, avoid distractions, and watch carefully for stopped vehicles and people near travel lanes.
