Mercer, MO (February 12, 2026) – A crash involving a horse and buggy and a Toyota RAV4 occurred on southbound US 65, approximately 4 miles north of Spickard, on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. The accident resulted in one person being injured and both vehicles sustaining total damage.
The incident unfolded when the driver of the Toyota RAV4, a 26-year-old male from Trenton, collided with the rear of a southbound horse and buggy. The driver of the buggy, a 31-year-old male from Spickard, sustained moderate injuries and was transported by Mercer County Ambulance to Mosaic Life Care St. Joseph. The RAV4 driver was uninjured, but his vehicle was towed from the scene.
Both the buggy and horse were removed by family members and towing services, while authorities, including the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and the Mercer County Fire Department, assisted in securing the scene.
Key Details
- Location: Southbound US 65, 4 miles north of Spickard
- County: Mercer County
- Reported: Wednesday, February 11, at 4:30 p.m.
- Vehicles Involved: 2015 Toyota RAV4, Horse and Buggy
- Injuries: One moderate injury to the horse and buggy driver
- Assisting Agencies: Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Mercer County Fire Department
What We Know So Far
- The crash occurred when the Toyota RAV4 struck the rear of the horse and buggy while both were traveling southbound on US 65.
- The driver of the buggy was transported with moderate injuries to a local hospital.
- Both the buggy and the Toyota RAV4 sustained total damage and were towed from the scene.
- The horse was removed by family members after the crash.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- Whether the driver of the Toyota failed to notice the buggy in time.
- The condition of the horse following the crash.
- Whether any citations will be issued to the Toyota driver.
Local Context
US 65 near Spickard is a rural highway used by both motor vehicles and farm-related traffic, including horse-drawn buggies. Collisions involving slower-moving vehicles like buggies can be hazardous, especially when other drivers fail to notice them in time. This area is often frequented by residents traveling between rural communities.
What to Do Next
- Remain at the scene and follow instructions from first responders.
- Ensure your vehicle is safely off the roadway and use hazard lights.
- Provide basic information to responders when asked.
- Monitor symptoms later and seek care if anything changes.
FAQ
Q: What causes many rear-end collisions?
A: Rear-end collisions typically happen when drivers follow too closely, fail to notice stopped or slower vehicles in time, or are distracted while driving.
Q: Why are collisions with horse-drawn vehicles more dangerous?
A: Horse-drawn vehicles, like buggies, travel much slower than motor vehicles, making them harder to see or anticipate, especially at higher speeds or during low visibility conditions.
Q: What happens when a crash involves animals?
A: In cases involving animals, responders ensure the animal’s safety, often removing it from the scene, and may provide medical care to the animal if needed.
