Maries County, MO (May 14, 2025) – A fatal utility task vehicle (UTV) crash claimed the life of one man and left a woman seriously injured Monday evening in the 17000 block of County Road 522 near Rolla. The crash occurred at approximately 7:21 p.m. on May 12 and was investigated by Missouri State Highway Patrol Troopers E.J. Walker and G.D. Ward of the Major Crash Investigation Unit (MCIU).
According to the crash report, a 2021 Can-Am Defender UTV was traveling westbound when it veered off the right side of the rural roadway and struck a tree. The violent impact partially ejected both the driver and passenger—neither of whom was wearing a safety device.
The 61-year-old male passenger from Rolla was pronounced deceased at the scene by Maries County Coroner David Martin at 8:25 p.m. His name has not been publicly released, pending notification of additional family members.
The driver, a 61-year-old woman also from Rolla, sustained serious injuries and was transported by EMS to Phelps Health Hospital in Rolla. The UTV was totaled in the crash and towed from the scene by DHL Towing.
Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed this incident as Troop I’s first fatality crash for May and the eighth for the year 2025.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and send our sincerest hopes for the injured woman’s full and swift recovery.
UTV Crashes and Off-Road Fatalities in Missouri
Recreational vehicles like UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles) are commonly used in Missouri’s rural areas for both work and leisure, but they present unique risks—particularly when operated on public roadways or uneven terrain. Unlike standard passenger vehicles, UTVs offer limited structural protection and are prone to rollovers and ejections in off-road conditions.
In this Maries County tragedy, neither the driver nor passenger was wearing a safety device at the time of the crash. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol and off-road safety organizations, the use of seat belts or safety harnesses in UTVs significantly reduces the risk of ejection and fatal injury in the event of a rollover or collision.
The rural location of this crash also speaks to the challenges of emergency response in less-accessible areas, where time to treatment can impact survival and recovery outcomes. Roads like County Rd 522 may be narrow, unpaved, or unlit, increasing the risk of losing control—especially at dusk or during low-visibility conditions.
Missouri law encourages and, in some cases, mandates the use of helmets and restraints in UTVs. Safety education and adherence to local use regulations are key steps to preventing similar tragedies.
For families affected by fatal UTV crashes, the emotional toll is compounded by unexpected medical costs, funeral planning, and the search for answers in the wake of loss.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious off-road or UTV-related crash, there is support available.
Local Accident Reports is committed to assisting families and victims across Missouri by providing accurate reporting and access to medical, legal, and recovery resources. Reach out to Local Accident Reports today for guidance and care after a serious recreational vehicle accident.
