Stoddard Co, MO (September 15, 2025) – Emergency crews rushed to the scene of a serious rear-end collision Saturday afternoon on US-60, approximately three miles west of Morehouse, that left one woman severely injured and a vehicle totaled.
The crash was reported around 4:50 p.m., prompting a response from Trooper B. W. Dillon, with assistance from Corporal G. T. Ulm and Trooper A. J. LeRoux. According to reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the incident occurred when an eastbound 2018 Hyundai Elantra collided with the rear of a southbound 1992 Freightliner tractor.
The force of the crash caused extensive damage to the Hyundai, which had to be towed from the scene by D & K Towing. The Freightliner, which sustained only minor damage, was able to be driven away. The driver of the Elantra, a 41-year-old man from Paducah, Kentucky, was reportedly using a safety device and did not require transport.
A 35-year-old female passenger from Springfield, Missouri, riding in the Elantra, suffered serious injuries in the crash. Emergency responders on the scene worked quickly to stabilize the victim before she was airlifted by Air Evac to St. Louis University Hospital for urgent care.
Authorities have not released details regarding the cause of the collision beyond confirming the Hyundai rear-ended the Freightliner. Investigations are ongoing, and further updates may clarify contributing factors.
Our thoughts are with the injured passenger as she receives care and begins her recovery.
Tractor-Trailer Accidents in Missouri
Rear-end collisions involving passenger vehicles and commercial trucks can have devastating outcomes—especially when smaller vehicles strike the back of a heavy-duty rig. Saturday’s crash on US-60 west of Morehouse is a stark example of the dangers posed by these types of crashes, and the severe injuries they can cause to vehicle occupants.
In this incident, the smaller vehicle—a Hyundai Elantra—collided with the back end of a Freightliner tractor, a commercial truck built to withstand significant force. As is often the case, the occupants of the lighter vehicle bore the brunt of the impact. The 35-year-old female passenger suffered serious injuries, requiring immediate air medical evacuation, which highlights the urgency and severity of the event.
Stoddard County’s US-60 corridor is a major east-west route frequented by both commercial freight and regional traffic. Speed, spacing, and awareness are crucial on highways where large trucks and personal vehicles share lanes. When adequate following distance isn’t maintained, especially at high speeds, even a moment of distraction can result in collisions with serious or fatal consequences.
Rear-end crashes involving tractor-trailers are particularly dangerous because of the height difference between passenger vehicles and commercial trucks. In many cases, smaller vehicles can under-ride trailers, increasing the risk of life-threatening injuries. This is why safety advocacy groups continually stress the importance of underride guards, enhanced braking systems, and increased driver vigilance.
For victims and families affected by crashes involving commercial vehicles, navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. Medical bills, extended hospitalizations, and insurance complications often follow serious injuries. Legal guidance and resource support become essential tools for recovery and clarity.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving a commercial truck, you don’t have to face the process alone.
When serious injuries occur in crashes involving commercial trucks, every moment matters. The victim in Saturday’s US-60 accident required air transport due to the severity of her condition—a reminder of just how high the stakes can be. Local Accident Reports offer timely access to legal resources, medical referral networks, and case-specific guidance. Let us help you take the next step toward justice and recovery—connect with us today.
