CARTHAGE, MISSOURI — 76-Year-Old Man Killed, Wife Critically Injured in Crash Caused by Alleged Drunk Driver
CARTHAGE, MISSOURI — Authorities in Jasper County are investigating a devastating crash that claimed the life of a 76-year-old man and left his wife critically injured after an alleged drunk driver ran a stop sign late Saturday evening. The tragic collision occurred near the intersection of Fir Road and County Road 180 on October 19, 2025.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the couple was traveling in a sedan heading east on Fir Road when another vehicle, driven by a 34-year-old man, reportedly failed to stop at a posted stop sign. The impact was so severe that it sent both vehicles spinning off the roadway, scattering debris across the intersection.
Emergency crews from the Carthage Fire Department and Jasper County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene just before 8:45 p.m. Upon arrival, officers found the elderly man unresponsive inside the vehicle and his wife trapped in the passenger seat with life-threatening injuries. Firefighters used hydraulic rescue tools to free her before she was airlifted to a Springfield hospital in critical condition.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that the 76-year-old driver was pronounced dead at the scene by the Jasper County Coroner. His wife remains under intensive medical care as doctors monitor her condition. Investigators say both victims were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
Authorities reported that the suspect, who was driving a pickup truck, showed signs of intoxication and was taken into custody at the scene. Preliminary tests indicated a high blood alcohol concentration, and officials later confirmed that he had previous arrests for driving under the influence. Charges are pending, including vehicular manslaughter and driving while intoxicated causing serious injury.
Witnesses described the moment of the crash as “horrifying,” with one resident stating they heard a loud boom followed by the sound of twisted metal. Several neighbors rushed to assist the victims before emergency responders arrived, attempting to provide comfort and reassurance.
Investigators remained at the scene for several hours, documenting tire marks and collecting evidence as part of the reconstruction process. Traffic in the area was rerouted until early Sunday morning while crews cleared the wreckage and reopened the roadway.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminded the public about the deadly consequences of impaired driving. Officials emphasized that alcohol-related crashes continue to devastate families and communities across the state, and they urged drivers to plan ahead, use ride-sharing services, or designate a sober driver.
Friends and neighbors of the victims described them as kind-hearted, family-oriented people who were loved and respected throughout the Carthage community. The loss has deeply shaken residents, with many calling for stronger enforcement of repeat DUI offenses to prevent further tragedies.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working with the Jasper County Prosecutor’s Office to pursue full accountability. The community of Carthage now grieves a heartbreaking loss caused by what investigators say was a completely preventable act — one more reminder of the devastating toll of drunk driving on innocent lives.