Howell, MO (January 13, 2026) – A serious collision involving a pickup and an SUV resulted in multiple injuries on Monday afternoon on US 63, roughly three miles south of West Plains.
Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred at approximately 12:12 p.m. when a 2000 Ford Explorer attempted a left-hand turn and entered the path of a southbound 2001 Dodge 3500 pickup. The impact left both vehicles totaled and required removal by J & J Towing at the request of officers on the scene.
Emergency medical services responded swiftly to care for the injured. A 9-year-old boy riding in the Ford Explorer sustained serious injuries and was airlifted by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in Springfield. The SUV’s driver, a 37-year-old woman from Koshkonong, was treated for minor injuries and transported by South Howell EMS to Ozarks Healthcare. The driver of the pickup, a 32-year-old man from Thayer, did not report any injuries and was not using a safety device at the time of the crash.
Troopers from Troop G, including Tpr. A.K. Hughston, are conducting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Early findings indicate that failure to yield during a turning maneuver contributed to the incident.
Our thoughts go out to the young boy and others affected by this crash as they begin their recovery.
