Lafayette County, MO (January 17, 2026) – A fatal head-on collision on US-65 just east of Waverly claimed the life of one driver and left four others injured, including two young children, on the evening of January 16, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred at approximately 6:33 p.m. as a 2009 Ford Focus, driven by a 28-year-old woman from Marshall, lost control on an ice-covered section of the roadway. Authorities say her vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with a northbound 2021 Ford Explorer.
The driver of the Focus was wearing a seatbelt but was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:54 p.m. by paramedic R. Donnell. The occupants of the Explorer, all from Chillicothe, sustained various injuries. The 32-year-old female driver and a 35-year-old male passenger suffered moderate injuries, while two juvenile passengers, a 2-year-old girl and a 4-year-old boy, sustained minor injuries. All were transported to Carroll County Memorial Hospital for treatment.
Both vehicles were totaled and towed from the scene. Multiple agencies assisted with the investigation, including Troop A’s Major Crash Investigation Unit, the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Department, and the Saline County Sheriff’s Department.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the woman who lost her life and our best wishes for recovery to those who were injured.
