St. Charles County, MO (August 21, 2025) – A 19-year-old woman from Wentzville was seriously injured late Wednesday night in a two-vehicle crash on US Highway 61 northbound, just south of Wentzville Parkway. The crash occurred at approximately 11:38 p.m. and was investigated by Trooper M. Ogborne of Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop C.
According to the report, the 2025 Ford Mustang driven by the 19-year-old had been stopped in Lane 1 of the northbound highway, facing a northwesterly direction, as a result of a prior traffic incident. The driver was standing outside of her vehicle at the time of the collision.
A 2010 Nissan Versa, driven by a 21-year-old woman from Troy, was traveling in Lane 2 and reportedly following traffic too closely. As traffic slowed ahead, the Versa’s driver braked and changed lanes to avoid hitting another vehicle. However, she struck the front of the stationary Mustang.
The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles, which were towed from the scene by Superior Towing. The driver of the Mustang sustained serious injuries and was transported by the St. Charles County Ambulance District to Mercy Hospital St. Louis for emergency treatment. She was listed as “exempt” from safety restraint use—indicating she was outside the vehicle when the crash occurred.
Authorities did not report injuries for the 21-year-old Versa driver.
Multiple agencies, including MSGT. M. Autenrieth, TPR. R. Allee, and Wentzville Police Department, assisted at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.
We extend our deepest wishes for a full and swift recovery to the young woman injured in this incident.
Secondary Crashes and Highway Risks During Traffic Incidents
This incident on US-61 illustrates the serious risks that secondary crashes pose—especially when vehicles are disabled in active lanes of traffic. The original crash left the Ford Mustang stopped in a live traffic lane, with the driver outside of the vehicle—a highly vulnerable position on a high-speed roadway.
Secondary collisions often occur when approaching drivers do not have enough time or space to react to congestion or unexpected stopped vehicles. In this case, the 21-year-old driver’s lane change maneuver, combined with following too closely, left little margin for error.
When individuals exit their vehicle after a crash—particularly on highways—they face tremendous risk. Roadside safety measures such as moving to the shoulder (when possible), using hazard lights, and staying clear of active lanes are critical to reducing exposure to further harm.
For crash victims, these types of incidents frequently result in serious trauma, legal complications, and insurance disputes—especially when multiple events contribute to the outcome.
At Local Accident Reports, we’re committed to helping victims of complex crashes like this one on US-61 receive the support, information, and resources they need. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a multi-stage or high-speed collision, reach out today. We can help you understand your options and take the next steps toward healing and justice.
