Benton County, MO (August 5, 2026) – Four people were seriously hurt, and another person received minor injuries following a three-vehicle collision at the intersection of US 65 and Route BB in Benton County on Monday afternoon. The accident was reported at about 1:13 p.m.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 2017 Dodge Journey was turning east from southbound US 65 onto Route BB when it entered the path of a northbound 2017 Ford Explorer. The Explorer struck the passenger side of the Journey, which then crossed US 65 and hit a stationary 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 that was stopped on Route BB.
The Journey’s 37-year-old driver from Warsaw sustained serious injuries. Three boys, ages 6, 8, and 16, who were passengers on the Journey, were also hurt. The two younger children were flown to Children’s Mercy Hospital, while the 16-year-old was airlifted to the same facility with moderate injuries. The 44-year-old driver of the Ford Explorer received minor injuries and was not taken to a hospital. The driver of the Dodge Ram was not reported injured.
The investigation into the collision is continuing, and additional details may be released as they become available. We are keeping everyone injured in our thoughts and wishing them a full recovery.
Why Left-Turn Crashes at Highways Can Be Serious
Intersections where drivers turn across oncoming traffic are common places for severe roadway accidents. A driver making a left turn must judge the speed and distance of approaching vehicles before entering the intersection, and even a small miscalculation can lead to a broadside collision.
These crashes often place passengers on the side of the vehicle closest to the point of contact, increasing the likelihood of serious injuries. Wearing seat belts, obeying traffic controls, and slowing down when approaching intersections can help reduce the risk of severe outcomes. Careful observation of oncoming traffic and waiting for a safe gap before turning are key steps in improving roadway safety.
