St. Louis, MO (January 22, 2026) – A serious two-vehicle accident involving injuries occurred on Tuesday evening along eastbound Interstate 70 just east of Lucas and Hunt Rd. The crash, which happened around 7:42 p.m., prompted a swift emergency response from Northeast Fire Protection District crews and resulted in multiple people being hospitalized.
According to preliminary reports from Troop C, a 2025 Hyundai Elantra traveling eastbound was rear-ended by a 2017 Nissan Maxima. After the initial impact, the second vehicle continued forward and struck a guardrail before coming to a stop. The driver of the Nissan then reportedly fled the scene on foot and has not yet been identified.
The Hyundai was carrying a 30-year-old woman from Bridgeton and two 6-year-old girls. Emergency crews confirmed the children suffered injuries and were transported to SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital for treatment. The adult driver sustained injuries and was taken to Barnes-Jewish Hospital. All three were using appropriate safety restraints at the time of the collision.
Both vehicles sustained total damage and were towed from the scene by Terry’s Towing. Eastbound lanes of I-70 experienced delays as authorities investigated and cleared the area.
An investigation remains underway to locate the driver of the Nissan and determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officials have urged anyone with information to contact local authorities.
We extend our thoughts to those affected and hope for a swift and complete recovery for the injured individuals.
