Pulaski County, MO (September 4, 2025) – Emergency responders were dispatched early Tuesday morning to a serious two-vehicle crash on Interstate 44, approximately six miles west of Waynesville. The crash occurred around 2:00 a.m. and left three occupants of a passenger vehicle injured, including an infant.
According to reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a 2022 Hyundai Kona was traveling westbound on I-44 when it struck the rear of a 2025 Kenworth T680 semi-truck in the same lane. The force of the impact caused the semi to veer off the right side of the highway and collide with several trees.
Emergency crews from Pulaski County Ambulance Service responded to the scene, treating the occupants of the Hyundai. The driver, a 32-year-old man from Springfield, and two passengers—a 29-year-old woman and a male infant—suffered minor injuries. All three were transported to Mercy Hospital in Lebanon for evaluation and treatment.
The driver of the Kenworth truck, a 46-year-old man from Calexico, CA, was not injured and was able to drive his vehicle from the scene. Authorities noted that all parties involved were properly restrained at the time of the collision, which likely helped to prevent more severe injuries.
The Hyundai sustained extensive damage and remained at the scene. The semi-truck had minor damage and did not require towing. Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop I is continuing to investigate the incident to determine the cause of the collision.
Our thoughts are with the injured individuals and their families as they recover from this incident.
Truck Accidents in Missouri
Collisions involving commercial trucks are often more complex than typical crashes due to the size and weight disparity between vehicles. In this early morning incident on I-44, a passenger vehicle rear-ended a semi-truck—an event that could have had far more devastating consequences, especially considering that a child was among the passengers. Thankfully, the use of proper restraints and the prompt response of Pulaski County medics helped minimize the extent of the injuries.
Truck-related accidents are a persistent concern on Missouri highways, particularly along I-44, which serves as a major freight corridor through the state. Fatigue, low visibility during early hours, and sudden changes in traffic speed are all contributing factors in overnight collisions like this one. Investigators will likely explore these elements as they work to determine what led to the rear-end impact in this case.
When trucks are struck from behind, even by smaller vehicles, the results can be unpredictable. In this crash, the Kenworth veered off the road and hit multiple trees, highlighting the secondary dangers that can follow initial impact. Roadside hazards, such as tree lines or embankments, often complicate crash outcomes and present serious risks to all involved.
While the injuries in this case were reported as minor, the involvement of a child and the timing of the crash underscore the importance of safe driving practices at all hours. Drivers should always maintain a safe following distance—especially behind large commercial vehicles—and remain vigilant to changes in traffic flow, particularly in dark or low-visibility conditions.
Recovery from such incidents often involves more than just physical healing. For families with young children, navigating the aftermath of a crash can also include emotional stress, financial concerns, and insurance-related challenges. Seeking support can help victims better manage these burdens and ensure they have access to the resources they need.
Involved in a crash with a commercial vehicle? You’re not alone. At Local Accident Reports, we help injured drivers and passengers find the guidance and local support they need. Whether you’re facing medical decisions, insurance complications, or long-term recovery questions, our network is here to connect you with trusted professionals who understand your situation. Don’t delay—your recovery starts with getting the right help.
