Lincoln County, MO (May 18, 2025) – Medics and law enforcement responded to a fatal crash late Friday night involving a motorcycle and a pickup truck on Route U west of US-61. Tragically, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene following the violent head-on collision.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 10:05 PM when a 1995 Harley Davidson motorcycle, driven by a 30-year-old man from Auxvasse, was traveling eastbound on Route U. The motorcycle crossed the center line into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a westbound 2021 Chevrolet Silverado driven by a 34-year-old man from Moscow Mills.
The impact was severe, causing the motorcyclist to be ejected from the bike. Emergency personnel arrived on the scene quickly, but despite their efforts, the rider was pronounced deceased by the Lincoln County Coroner, Dan Heavin, at 10:15 PM. The driver of the Chevrolet sustained no reported injuries. Both vehicles were extensively damaged and towed from the scene by Priority One Towing.
Investigators, including Troop C officers and the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Major Crash Investigation Unit, remain actively involved in determining the exact circumstances that led to the crash. Officials confirmed that neither driver was wearing a safety device, and it remains unclear why the motorcycle veered into the opposite lane.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and loved ones of the motorcyclist lost in this tragic incident.
Motorcycle Safety and Fatal Crashes in Missouri
Motorcycle accidents, particularly those involving head-on collisions, remain among the most fatal types of crashes in Missouri. In rural areas such as Lincoln County, winding two-lane roads like Route U can pose significant hazards for motorcyclists, especially after dark when visibility decreases and reaction times are critical.
According to the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, motorcyclists accounted for over 14% of all traffic fatalities in the state in 2024, despite comprising a small fraction of registered vehicles. Many of these fatalities involve head-on crashes, often the result of vehicles crossing center lines, failing to negotiate turns, or misjudging speed and distance.
The lack of safety devices, particularly helmet use, contributes to the severity of motorcycle injuries. In this case, authorities confirmed that the motorcyclist was not using a safety device at the time of the crash, which likely contributed to the fatal outcome.
Route U, while scenic and commonly used by local residents, presents challenges for motorcyclists due to narrow shoulders, limited lighting, and sharp curves. Drivers are urged to exercise extra caution when navigating rural roadways, maintain safe speeds, and be vigilant about staying in their designated lanes.
In the wake of tragedies like this, it’s essential to raise awareness about motorcycle safety, promote proper gear usage, and improve road infrastructure to prevent further loss of life.
For those who have lost a loved one in a crash, Local Accident Reports offers resources and support during these difficult times.
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