Barry, MO (December 28, 2025) – A single-vehicle rollover crash on Saturday afternoon along MO-86 in Golden resulted in one fatality and left another individual seriously injured, according to Missouri State Highway Patrol officials.
The collision occurred at approximately 12:57 p.m. on December 27 along MO-86 within the Golden city limits. Reports indicate that a 2004 Jeep Wrangler was traveling westbound when it crossed over the center line. After an apparent overcorrection, the vehicle left the right side of the roadway and overturned.
Emergency responders from Golden and surrounding areas arrived to find the vehicle with severe damage. Paramedics and fire crews worked to assist the occupants, who were both suffering from significant trauma. The driver, a 45-year-old man from Eagle Rock, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted by Life Line to Mercy Springfield for advanced medical care.
A 74-year-old woman from Shell Knob, who was riding as a passenger in the Jeep, suffered fatal injuries in the crash. She was pronounced deceased at the scene by Barry County Coroner Gary Swearingen at approximately 2:40 p.m. The vehicle was later removed from the roadway by Schrader’s Towing.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol identified the incident as Troop D’s 127th fatality of 2025. The crash remains under investigation by M.Sgt. J. Givens, with assistance from the Major Crash Investigation Unit and additional troopers. Next of kin have been notified.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones affected by this tragic loss, as well as with the injured driver during his recovery.
Rollover Accidents in Missouri
Rollover crashes are among the most dangerous types of accidents on Missouri roadways, particularly on two-lane highways like MO-86 that wind through rural communities such as Golden. These roads often feature narrow shoulders, curves, and elevation changes that can increase the risk of a vehicle leaving the roadway when control is lost.
In this incident, the Jeep Wrangler crossed the center line before overturning, a sequence that underscores how quickly a routine drive can turn catastrophic. Rollover crashes frequently lead to serious or fatal injuries due to roof intrusion and the violent motion experienced by occupants inside the vehicle. The consequences can be even more severe when seatbelts are not in use, as occupants may be thrown against hard surfaces or ejected during the rollover.
Barry County has seen its share of serious crashes on state highways that pass directly through small towns. MO-86 serves as an important connector for residents traveling between Golden, Shell Knob, and neighboring areas, meaning drivers often encounter a mix of local traffic, unfamiliar motorists, and varying road conditions. Even a brief lapse in control on these routes can have irreversible outcomes.
Saturday’s crash also highlights the critical role of emergency medical response in rural regions. The use of air transport for the injured driver reflects the severity of the injuries and the need for rapid access to trauma care. While emergency responders work tirelessly to provide aid, prevention remains the most effective way to reduce the toll of these devastating accidents.
For families affected by fatal crashes, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Beyond the emotional loss, there are often complex questions surrounding medical care, insurance matters, and what steps come next. Communities like Golden feel these losses deeply, as such tragedies ripple through friends, neighbors, and extended families.
When a serious or fatal accident occurs, having access to clear information and dependable resources can make a difficult time slightly more manageable. Local Accident Reports is dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by crashes across Missouri. We provide access to helpful information and support so you can better understand your options and focus on healing. If you or someone you love has been impacted by a serious accident, reach out to Local Accident Reports today for guidance and assistance during this challenging time.
