Jefferson Co, MO (January 14, 2026) – A tragic two-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon in Jefferson County resulted in the death of a woman and left a child and a teen injured. The collision occurred around 12:00 p.m. at the intersection of Route A and Route Z, drawing an emergency response from multiple agencies.
According to reports from Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop C, a 16-year-old male driving a 2005 Ford Escape eastbound failed to maintain his lane. The vehicle veered into the westbound lane and into the path of an oncoming 2016 Acura TLX. The Acura’s driver, a 34-year-old woman from Herculaneum, attempted to steer right to avoid the crash, but the front driver’s side of the Ford struck the driver’s side of her vehicle.
Tragically, the woman was pronounced deceased at the scene by EMS personnel at 12:21 p.m. A 4-year-old boy riding in her vehicle sustained serious injuries and was rushed to St. Louis Children’s Hospital by the Joachim Plattin Ambulance District. The teen driver of the Ford Escape also suffered moderate injuries and was transported to the same facility for treatment.
Both vehicles were completely destroyed in the impact and were towed from the scene by Miners Towing. Authorities confirmed that all involved individuals were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
The Jefferson County Medical Examiner’s Office and members of the Major Crash Investigation Unit responded to assist with the fatal scene. Investigators are continuing to piece together the events that led up to the crash, including whether speed or inexperience played a role.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the woman who lost her life. We also send our thoughts and hopes for recovery to the injured children involved in this heartbreaking incident.
