Bollinger County, MO (February 14, 2026) – A 72-year-old woman was killed Friday afternoon after a crash along MO-34 approximately 10 miles west of Marble Hill. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the fatal incident occurred on February 13 at 2:52 p.m. and involved a Ford Expedition that left the roadway before overturning.
Key Details
- Reported: February 13 at 2:52 p.m.
- Location: MO-34, 10 miles west of Marble Hill, Bollinger County
- Vehicles Involved: 2023 Ford Expedition and 2001 Kawasaki Mule
- Fatality: 72-year-old female pedestrian
- Vehicle Damage: Ford sustained extensive damage; Kawasaki Mule listed as total loss
What We Know So Far
- The Ford Expedition reportedly ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a rock bluff before overturning
- After overturning, the vehicle struck a pedestrian who was standing beside the Kawasaki Mule
- The 72-year-old woman was pronounced dead at the scene at 3:22 p.m. by the Bollinger County Deputy Coroner
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The reason the Ford Expedition left the roadway
- Whether any additional contributing factors played a role in the crash
- The condition of the 28-year-old driver of the Ford Expedition
Local Context
Rural sections of MO-34 west of Marble Hill are characterized by winding stretches, rock bluffs, and limited shoulder space. In Bollinger County, crashes involving vehicles leaving the roadway can quickly become severe due to terrain and roadside hazards. The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Major Crash Investigations Unit responded to this fatal incident, underscoring its seriousness.
What to Do Next
- Remain attentive when traveling rural highways, especially near curves and roadside terrain changes.
- Reduce speed and maintain control when approaching rock bluffs or narrow shoulders.
- If you witness a serious crash, contact emergency services immediately and avoid approaching unstable vehicles.
- For families affected by fatal crashes, obtain the official crash report to assist with insurance and estate matters.
FAQ
Q: Why are vehicles leaving the roadway especially dangerous in rural areas?
A: Rural highways often have steep embankments, rock formations, and limited barriers. When a vehicle departs the roadway, it may strike fixed objects or overturn, increasing the likelihood of fatal outcomes.
Q: What role does the Major Crash Investigations Unit play?
A: This specialized unit assists with detailed analysis of serious and fatal crashes, including scene reconstruction and evidence collection to determine contributing factors.
Q: How are pedestrians classified in crash reports?
A: A pedestrian is any person not occupying a motor vehicle at the time of impact. Even if standing beside a vehicle, they are recorded as pedestrians in official reports.
