Crawford County, Missouri — A devastating head-on crash on Highway C Wednesday afternoon has left a 91-year-old woman from Cuba dead and another driver seriously injured. The incident occurred about one mile west of Gerth Road at approximately 4:45 p.m., shocking the small rural community.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), the collision happened when a 2020 Cadillac Escalade, traveling eastbound and driven by a 61-year-old man from Bourbon, crossed the centerline of the roadway for reasons still under investigation. The SUV collided directly with a westbound 2013 Chrysler Town and Country van driven by the elderly Cuba woman.
The force of the impact caused severe damage to both vehicles, leaving debris scattered across the roadway. Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including North Crawford Ambulance, rushed to the scene to provide aid. Despite their swift arrival, the injuries sustained by the woman in the Chrysler were too severe, and she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that the identity of the victim will not be released until her family has been notified. The man driving the Escalade suffered serious injuries and was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Washington for emergency treatment. His current condition has not been made public.
Due to the severity of the crash, the MSHP Crash Reconstruction Team was called in to document the scene and gather evidence. Investigators spent hours measuring skid marks, analyzing debris patterns, and assessing the positions of the vehicles to determine the sequence of events.
Highway C remained closed in both directions for several hours on Wednesday evening while crews worked to clear the wreckage and restore safe driving conditions. Traffic was diverted to surrounding rural roads, creating delays for local commuters and residents in the area.
Members of the Cuba community have expressed grief over the loss of the elderly resident, describing her as a long-time and well-respected member of the town. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can occur on rural highways, where curves, narrow lanes, and speed limits can increase the risk of serious collisions.
Investigators have not yet determined why the Escalade crossed into oncoming traffic. As part of the investigation, authorities will review toxicology reports, conduct mechanical inspections of the vehicles, and collect witness statements to piece together what led to the fatal crash.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol is using the incident as an opportunity to remind drivers about the importance of staying alert behind the wheel. Officials urge motorists to remain within their lanes, avoid distractions, and maintain safe speeds — especially on two-lane highways where a momentary lapse in attention can have devastating consequences.
As the investigation continues, the community awaits answers, hoping that the findings will lead to a clearer understanding of what caused this heartbreaking collision. For many, the incident stands as a solemn call for heightened caution and awareness whenever traveling Missouri’s rural roadways.
Leave a Reply