Jefferson Co, MO (September 10, 2025) – Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision, which tragically claimed the life of a pedestrian early Tuesday morning in Jefferson County. The fatal incident occurred around 5:25 a.m. on the southbound side of Missouri 21, just north of Amvets Dr.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 was traveling southbound when it struck a pedestrian who was also walking southbound in the roadway. The driver, a 25-year-old man from Hillsboro, MO, remained on the scene and reported that the pedestrian was not visible at the time of the crash. The front right of the Dodge Ram made contact with the pedestrian before the vehicle continued traveling south.
The pedestrian, identified as a 50-year-old man from De Soto, MO, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene by De Soto Police at 6:53 a.m. His body was transported to the St. Louis County Morgue by Edwards Mortuary Services.
Troop C of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, along with Crash Team #4 investigators and multiple law enforcement officers, are conducting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Our hearts go out to the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time.
Pedestrian Safety Challenges in Rural Missouri
This tragic pedestrian fatality on MO 21 highlights ongoing safety concerns for individuals walking along high-speed, rural roadways in Missouri. Unlike urban environments where sidewalks and street lighting are common, rural highways often lack infrastructure designed to protect pedestrians. In this case, limited visibility in the early morning hours may have played a significant role in the collision.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, pedestrian fatalities have been on the rise in recent years, particularly in areas outside of metropolitan centers. Many of these incidents occur during dawn or dusk, when low-light conditions make pedestrians harder to detect, even for attentive drivers.
Authorities urge pedestrians to wear reflective clothing and carry lights if walking along highways, and to avoid walking in the travel lanes whenever possible. For motorists, this incident serves as a solemn reminder to remain vigilant, especially in poorly lit or less-traveled areas where pedestrians may be present.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
