Clinton County, MO (May 24, 2026) – A multi-vehicle crash on southbound Interstate 35 left several people seriously injured on Friday afternoon, May 22, near mile marker 51, about two miles south of Cameron.
Authorities reported that several vehicles were stopped in the left lane due to traffic congestion when a 2015 Honda CR-V failed to stop in time. The SUV struck the rear of a 2015 Chrysler Town and Country, which then pushed into a 2017 Toyota RAV-4. That vehicle was forced into a 2024 Kia Telluride, creating a chain-reaction collision.
Multiple people were hurt in the crash, including a 19-year-old female driver from Shawnee and other occupants ranging in age from 12 to 45. Emergency medical crews from Cameron and Tri-County transported several of the injured to Liberty Hospital for treatment.
The Honda CR-V came to rest in the left lane, while other vehicles ended up across the roadway and median. Some vehicles were towed due to significant damage. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing as officials review the circumstances leading up to the collision. We extend our thoughts to everyone affected.
What Happens in Chain-Reaction Highway Crashes?
Chain-reaction crashes on highways often occur when traffic is slowed or stopped, and a driver is unable to react in time. These collisions can quickly involve multiple vehicles, especially in congested lanes where spacing is limited.
When one impact occurs, the force can push vehicles forward into others, creating a domino effect. This can lead to multiple points of contact and a wide spread of debris across the roadway.
Emergency crews typically focus first on checking for injuries and securing the scene before removing damaged vehicles. Investigators then review traffic conditions, vehicle positions, and braking evidence to understand how the sequence of impacts developed.
