Phelps County, MO (January 3, 2026) – A serious two-vehicle crash occurred on January 2 at the intersection of Highway J and Highway Z, following a law enforcement pursuit. Emergency personnel responded at approximately 5:24 p.m. after reports that a fleeing driver collided with another vehicle at the rural Phelps County junction.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 47-year-old man from Waynesville was driving a 2012 Kia Soul when he allegedly fled law enforcement and failed to slow down at the intersection. His vehicle collided with a 2016 Ram 3500 traveling northbound. The impact totaled both vehicles and required two separate towing services. The driver of the Kia, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained serious injuries and was transported by Pulaski County Ambulance to Phelps Health in Rolla.
The 25-year-old driver of the Ram, a resident of Edgar Springs, was reportedly uninjured and had been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Several troopers and assisting agencies responded to manage the scene, including officers from Troop I and Pulaski County authorities. The incident remains under investigation as officials review the pursuit and crash details.
We extend our hopes for a full recovery to the injured individual.
Police Pursuit Crashes in Missouri
Crashes involving fleeing suspects remain a dangerous and all-too-frequent occurrence on Missouri roads, especially in more rural counties like Phelps, where long stretches of intersecting highways can lead to high-speed chases. The January 2 crash at Highways J and Z is a clear example of how quickly a pursuit can end in serious injury, not only to suspects, but also to other road users who may be in the path of the fleeing vehicle.
In this case, the driver failed to reduce speed at an intersection and collided with a northbound pickup truck, resulting in a high-impact crash that totaled both vehicles. Investigators confirmed the fleeing driver was not restrained at the time, which likely contributed to the severity of his injuries. Seatbelt use remains one of the most effective measures to prevent fatal and serious outcomes in high-speed crashes.
Law enforcement officers are trained to weigh the risks of continuing or terminating pursuits based on public safety, but drivers attempting to evade police often place themselves and others at immediate risk. In rural areas where roads may not be lit or clearly marked, even minor misjudgments can result in life-threatening collisions.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash involving reckless driving or a police chase, Local Accident Reports is here to help. Contact us today to get connected with recovery resources, legal support, and personalized guidance suited to your circumstances.
