Lafayette Co, MO (January 11, 2026) – A 23-year-old man was injured on Saturday afternoon in a two-vehicle collision on Interstate 70 westbound near mile marker 41, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 3:45 p.m., when a 2022 Freightliner operated by a 25-year-old driver from Fresno, CA, failed to safely negotiate a lane shift. The truck’s tow unit struck the passenger side of a westbound 2005 Acura TL, causing moderate damage to the car.
The Acura’s driver, a Leavenworth, KS resident, was properly restrained and sustained injuries in the crash. Emergency crews from Odessa Fire and EMS responded quickly, providing on-scene care before transporting the injured man to Centerpoint Medical Center for further treatment.
The Freightliner sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene, while Wilkin’s Towing removed the disabled Acura from the highway. Traffic delays were reported in the area as responders worked to clear the roadway and assist the injured party.
Trooper S.J. Crosson led the investigation, with support from Trooper R.T. McFatrich, the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department, and the Odessa Police Department. The incident remains under investigation, and no citations have been announced.
Our thoughts are with the injured driver, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery.
