Atchison County, MO (June 30, 2025) – A devastating multi-vehicle crash involving a wrong-way driver on Interstate 29 northbound claimed the life of a 75-year-old Kansas City woman and left several others seriously injured late Saturday night. The collision occurred around 11:15 p.m. near mile marker 115, approximately five miles north of Rock Port.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash happened when a 2006 Kia Sedona, driven by the 75-year-old woman, was traveling southbound in the northbound passing lane. Her vehicle collided head-on with a 2019 Infiniti QX8, driven by a 30-year-old woman from Denison, Iowa. A third vehicle, a 2012 Kia Sorento, then struck the Infiniti from behind after it became partially airborne.
The driver of the wrong-way vehicle, who was not identified by name in the preliminary report, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Atchison County Coroner. She was transported to Frontier Forensics in Kansas City, KS.
The driver of the Kia Sorento, a 28-year-old woman from Ward, SC, was not reported as injured, but her vehicle was totaled in the crash.
All vehicles involved were towed from the scene by Double M Towing. The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Major Crash Investigation Unit, along with the Atchison County Sheriff’s Department, responded to the scene.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the deceased, and we wish strength and healing to the injured victims.
The Dangers of Wrong-Way Driving on Missouri Highways
Saturday night’s fatal crash in Atchison County is a tragic reminder of the catastrophic consequences of wrong-way driving, particularly on divided highways like I-29. Traveling against the flow of traffic at high speeds leaves little time for other drivers to react, making such collisions among the deadliest types of crashes.
In this incident, a single wrong-way driver caused a chain reaction involving three vehicles, multiple hospitalizations, and the heartbreaking loss of life. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, wrong-way crashes often result in fatalities and are commonly linked to driver impairment, disorientation, or medical emergencies.
For the families involved, the aftermath can be emotionally and financially overwhelming—especially when young children are among the injured. Recovery may include extended medical care, psychological trauma, and legal complexities related to insurance or liability.
Missouri continues to explore enhanced countermeasures to prevent wrong-way driving, including better signage, pavement markings, and alert systems. Still, incidents like this underscore the importance of vigilant driving and timely reporting of any vehicles seen traveling in the wrong direction.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious or fatal crash, Local Accident Reports is here to support you with compassionate updates, helpful resources, and guidance on the path toward recovery. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you during this difficult time
