Audrain Co, MO (January 22, 2026) – A devastating multi-vehicle accident claimed the life of one man and left two others injured early on Wednesday morning on MO-22, approximately 1.5 miles west of Route E.
The collision occurred at around 6:45 a.m., according to investigators with the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Major Crash Investigation Unit. A 2010 Ford Escape, driven by a 35-year-old man from Mexico, MO, was traveling westbound when it attempted to pass several vehicles. During the maneuver, it collided head-on with an eastbound 2019 Kenworth truck.
The force of the impact caused a chain reaction. A second westbound vehicle, a 2023 Freightliner Conventional operated by a 56-year-old man from Paris, MO, veered off the roadway, overturned, and came to rest on its roof. The Ford Escape’s driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene by the Audrain County Coroner.
The Kenworth, driven by a 46-year-old man from Fulton, MO, also left the roadway and caught fire after the collision. Though the driver suffered moderate injuries, he refused treatment at the scene. The Freightliner’s driver sustained moderate injuries as well and was transported to University Hospital by Boone Ambulance.
All three vehicles sustained total damage and were removed from the scene by A-1 Towing. The crash marks the second fatality for Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop F in both January and the year 2026. Authorities remained on site for several hours, conducting a thorough investigation and clearing debris.
We send our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the man who lost his life, and hope for the recovery of those injured.
