Randolph County, MO (March 24, 2026) – A man was killed, and two others were injured in a crash involving a sport utility vehicle and a horse-drawn buggy on Route M about three miles west of Middle Grove in Randolph County.
The collision happened around 4:29 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, along the westbound side of the roadway. Authorities said a Ford Escape traveling westbound struck the rear of a horse-drawn buggy moving in the same direction.
The buggy was driven by a 26-year-old man from Madison, Missouri. He suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A 20-year-old woman from Madison who was riding in the buggy was seriously injured. She was transported by helicopter to University Medical Center for treatment.
The driver of the Ford Escape, a 75-year-old woman from Moberly, Missouri, sustained minor injuries and was taken by ambulance to a hospital in Moberly.
Officials said both vehicles involved in the crash sustained heavy damage and were removed from the scene.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as they become available. Our condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones.
Why Crashes With Horse-Drawn Buggies Can Be Especially Dangerous
Horse-drawn buggies are still used for transportation in some rural communities. Because they travel at much slower speeds than most motor vehicles, they can pose a hazard on roads with fast-moving traffic.
Drivers approaching a buggy from behind may have limited time to slow down, especially on hilly or curvy roads. If a driver fails to notice the buggy in time, a rear-end crash can occur.
Buggies also offer less physical protection than standard vehicles. Occupants are exposed and typically lack the safety features found in cars, such as airbags or reinforced frames.
For this reason, crashes involving motor vehicles and horse-drawn buggies can lead to severe injuries. Reduced speed, increased following distance, and greater awareness on rural roads can help lower the risk of these incidents.
