Pettis County, MO (June 18, 2026) – A first responder and another driver were injured after a collision involving a patrol vehicle on US-65 south of the Route CC intersection near Marshall Junction on Tuesday evening, June 16.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. while a 27-year-old Sedalia first responder was conducting traffic control in the southbound lanes of US-65 with emergency lights activated.
Investigators reported that a sedan driven by a 30-year-old man from Marshall struck the rear of the patrol vehicle. Emergency crews responded to the scene and provided medical assistance to those involved.
The Marshall driver sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a hospital in Columbia for treatment. The first responder suffered minor injuries and was treated at a hospital in Sedalia.
Authorities closed the southbound lanes of US-65 for approximately one hour while the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office and other emergency personnel responded to the crash and cleared the roadway.
The incident remains under investigation. We hope both injured individuals make a full recovery.
Why Crashes Emergency and Traffic-Control Vehicles Occur?
Vehicles stopped along roadways for emergency response or traffic-control operations can be vulnerable to secondary collisions, particularly on busy highways. Even with emergency lights activated, approaching drivers may have limited time to react due to traffic conditions, distractions, weather, or reduced visibility.
Investigators reviewing these incidents examine vehicle positions, roadway conditions, traffic patterns, and witness statements. They may also analyze whether warning lights, traffic-control measures, or other safety devices were in place at the time of the crash.
Because emergency personnel frequently work in proximity to moving traffic, agencies continue to emphasize roadway awareness and compliance with move-over laws designed to protect first responders and other roadside workers.
