Newton, MO (January 9, 2026) – A head-on collision along Nettle Dr, approximately two miles east of Seneca in Newton County, left two individuals injured on Thursday evening.
The crash was reported at around 5:55 p.m. when a westbound 1998 Dodge Dakota, driven by a 19-year-old man from Seneca, crossed the center of the roadway and struck an eastbound 2015 Ford Explorer. The impact caused severe damage to both vehicles, which were later towed from the scene by Doug’s Body Works and Metro Towing, respectively.
Both drivers sustained moderate injuries in the crash. The teen driver of the Dodge was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision and was transported to Mercy Hospital in Joplin for medical treatment. The 35-year-old female driver of the Explorer, whose city of residence is unknown, was properly restrained and also transported to the same facility.
Trooper S.J. Hallam is handling the ongoing investigation. Early findings point to the Dakota crossing into oncoming traffic as the primary cause of the crash.
We extend our best wishes for recovery to both individuals hurt in this serious collision.
