Newton County, MO (May 18, 2025) – Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after a violent head-on crash occurred in the early morning hours Saturday on MO-59, two miles north of Neosho. The crash, which involved a hit-and-run driver, left one woman seriously injured and hospitalized.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident happened around 3:15 AM when a 1999 Ford F250 traveling northbound crossed the center line and struck a southbound 2001 Ford F150 head-on. The driver of the F150, a 50-year-old woman from Granby, MO, suffered serious injuries and was transported by EMS to Mercy Joplin Hospital for treatment. Authorities confirmed she had been wearing a safety device.
Following the collision, the driver of the Ford F250 fled the scene. Their identity remains unknown, and authorities have not confirmed the gender or age of the person responsible. Both vehicles were totaled and later removed from the scene by Metro Towing.
Troopers from Troop D responded to the scene along with additional units from local law enforcement. The investigation is ongoing as officers work to identify and locate the hit-and-run suspect. No additional details have been released at this time.
Our thoughts are with the injured driver as she begins her recovery, and we hope for her full and swift healing.
Hit-and-Run Head-On Crashes in Missouri
Head-on collisions are some of the most dangerous types of crashes, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. When these incidents involve a fleeing driver, the complexity and emotional toll increase dramatically for victims and their families. Unfortunately, hit-and-run incidents are not uncommon on rural Missouri roadways like MO-59.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, head-on crashes make up a small percentage of total accidents but account for a significant portion of serious injuries and deaths. The risks intensify during nighttime or early morning hours, especially on undivided highways where lighting is limited and visibility is reduced.
MO-59 is a key north-south route in Newton County and regularly serves both local and through traffic. The stretch north of Neosho, where this incident occurred, is known for winding lanes and limited shoulder space—conditions that can become especially hazardous when a driver crosses the centerline.
Fleeing the scene of a crash is a serious crime in Missouri. In addition to facing civil liability for injuries and damages, hit-and-run drivers may be charged with felony offenses, particularly when the incident results in serious injury or death. Law enforcement continues to urge anyone with information about this crash or the driver of the northbound Ford F250 to come forward.
If you or someone you care about has been affected by a hit-and-run crash, contact Local Accident Reports for resources, guidance, and next steps in the recovery process.