Boone County, MO (April 30, 2026) – One person died, and three others were hospitalized, on Wednesday evening, April 29, after a crash involving an ambulance on U.S. 63 in northern Boone County.
The collision happened shortly before 5:45 p.m. along the southbound side of the highway. According to reports, a 2019 Dodge Caravan was traveling on the right shoulder before making an improper left turn into the path of an approaching ambulance.
Officials said the ambulance driver attempted to avoid the vehicle but struck the left side of the Dodge Caravan. The driver of the van, identified as an 81-year-old man from Moberly, was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other people involved in the collision were taken to hospitals for treatment. Their conditions have not been released.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased man.
How Shoulder Maneuvers on Highways Can Lead to Serious Collisions
Driving on a highway shoulder can create dangerous conditions, especially when a vehicle attempts to re-enter active traffic lanes unexpectedly. Drivers traveling at highway speeds may have only seconds to react when another vehicle suddenly crosses into their path. These situations can become even more hazardous when large or emergency vehicles are involved.
Ambulances and other emergency vehicles require additional stopping distance because of their size and weight. They can also make sudden turns or lane crossings, which may leave little room to avoid a collision. Side-impact crashes can cause severe injuries because parts of a vehicle provide less protection during impact.
After major highway accidents, investigators review vehicle movement, roadway position, and traffic conditions. These details may help explain how the crash occurred and whether visibility or driver actions contributed to the collision.