St. Joseph, MO (June 15, 2026) – One man died, and eight others were hurt on Saturday morning, June 13, after an accident on Interstate 29 in Buchanan County.
The report said the 2004 Ford Expedition was traveling southbound on Interstate 29 at mile marker 35 around 10:40 a.m. when its rear driver’s side tire blew out. The SUV then left the west side of the roadway and overturned several times before stopping on its roof, facing northwest.
The 34-year-old driver from St. Joseph was pronounced dead at 11:37 a.m. A 2-year-old boy had moderate injuries, while three girls, ages 13, 14, and 16, were seriously hurt.
Four other passengers, including a 3-year-old girl, an 8-year-old girl, a 10-year-old boy, and a 36-year-old woman, had minor injuries. Two 0-year-old girls were listed with no injuries, though both were brought to Children’s Mercy Hospital. Everyone in the SUV was listed as using a safety device. The fatal wreck remains under review as officials examine the circumstances surrounding the tire failure and rollover.
Our condolences are with the driver’s loved ones, and we hope those injured continue to recover.
Why Tire Failures Can Lead to Severe Highway Rollovers
A tire failure at highway speed can quickly change how a driver is able to steer. When a tire gives out, the vehicle may pull sharply, especially if it happens near the rear axle. Larger SUVs can become unstable when they leave the paved travel lane or slide onto uneven ground.
Rollovers usually create a high risk of harm because occupants may be thrown against doors, windows, seats, or the roof. Seat belts and child restraints can reduce movement inside the cabin, but they cannot remove every danger during multiple rolls.
Investigators sometimes review tire age, tread wear, inflation level, travel speed, and road surface. These details can help explain why a tire failed and how the vehicle moved afterward.
