Boone County, MO (August 25, 2025) – A serious two-vehicle collision early Sunday morning on US 63 Southbound, just south of Route AB, left both drivers injured and their vehicles totaled, according to a report by Missouri State Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 3:15 a.m. and involved a head-on impact caused by a wrong-way driver.
Authorities state that a 20-year-old male from Rolla, driving a 2015 Volkswagen Passat, was heading the wrong way on US 63 when his vehicle collided head-on with a 2011 Mercury Mariner driven by a 21-year-old male from Jefferson City. Despite efforts by the second driver to avoid the crash, the vehicles struck front to front, causing extensive damage to both.
Both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision and were transported by ambulance to University Hospital in Columbia. The Rolla man sustained minor injuries, while the Jefferson City man suffered moderate injuries. I-70 Towing removed both vehicles from the scene.
The crash remains under investigation, and no further details regarding potential contributing factors such as impairment or distraction have been released. The incident closed a portion of US 63 Southbound temporarily as emergency crews cleared the wreckage and assisted those involved.
Our thoughts are with both drivers as they recover from this crash.
Wrong-Way Collisions in Missouri
Head-on collisions caused by wrong-way drivers are among the most dangerous types of crashes on Missouri highways, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. The crash on US 63 south of Route AB serves as a stark reminder of how quickly these types of incidents can unfold—especially in early morning hours when visibility is low and fatigue is a common factor.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, wrong-way crashes—while less frequent—carry a high risk of life-altering injuries. In this case, both young drivers sustained injuries despite being properly restrained, highlighting the limited protective impact of seatbelts in high-speed frontal impacts.
US 63 is a heavily traveled corridor that connects several key regions across Missouri. Its divided highway structure is intended to minimize the risk of head-on crashes, yet wrong-way incidents still occur—often due to driver confusion, impairment, or missed signage. Emergency crews in Boone County responded quickly, and the fast medical transport to University Hospital likely played a role in preventing more serious outcomes.
Public safety efforts continue to focus on better signage, rumble strips, and public education to reduce the incidence of wrong-way driving. Still, Missouri drivers are encouraged to remain vigilant—especially during off-peak hours when the risk of encountering an impaired or disoriented motorist increases.
If you or someone close to you was injured in a head-on crash like the one on US 63, Local Accident Reports is here to help you navigate the aftermath. We provide timely updates, critical resources, and support tailored to your recovery. Reach out today to begin exploring your next steps and safeguard your future.
