Laclede, MO (November 19, 2023) – A severe crash involving an overturned vehicle occurred on I-44 Eastbound near mile marker 138.4 in Lebanon on Saturday, November 18, at 5:30 PM.
Tabitha I. Smith, a 41-year-old female from Lebanon, MO, lost control of her 2002 Ford Explorer. The vehicle veered off the right side, overcorrected, then traveled off the left side, striking the median cable before overturning. Smith suffered moderate injuries and was transported by Mercy EMS to Cox South in Springfield.
Edman D. Brown, a 49-year-old male occupant, also from Lebanon, sustained serious injuries. He was airlifted by Lifeline to Cox South in Springfield. Both victims’ safety device usage is unknown.
The vehicle was totaled and towed by C&L. TPR J.C. Southwood of Troop I is investigating the crash. Further investigation is ongoing to determine the precise causes of the incident.