Douglas County, MO – One Killed, One Seriously Injured in Head-On Crash on MO-5 Near Ava

Douglas County, MO (November 21, 2025) – A head-on crash on Highway 5 left one woman dead and another seriously injured early on November 20, about nine miles north of Ava in Douglas County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that the crash occurred around 7:00 a.m. when a southbound 2021 Kia Forte crossed the centerline and struck a northbound 2018 Jeep Compass.

The driver of the Kia, a 50-year-old woman from Mansfield, was not wearing a seatbelt and was pronounced dead at the scene by Douglas County Coroner Rick Miller at 7:21 a.m. Her body was released to the Douglas County Coroner and Clinkingbeard Funeral Home in Ava.

The driver of the Jeep, a 52-year-old woman from Ava, was seriously injured in the crash. She was wearing a seatbelt and was transported by Cox Ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Springfield for treatment.

Both vehicles sustained total damage and were removed from the scene by local tow services.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol, along with the Douglas County Sheriff's Department, continues to investigate the cause of the crash. Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the woman who lost her life, and our thoughts are with the other driver as they recover from serious injuries.

Head-On Collisions in Douglas County, Missouri

Head-on collisions are among the most deadly types of crashes on Missouri roadways, especially in rural areas where high-speed highways often lack physical barriers. The recent fatal crash on Missouri Highway 5 north of Ava is a stark reminder of the devastating impact these types of accidents can have.

In Missouri, hundreds of lives are lost each year in traffic collisions, and head-on crashes make up a significant portion of those fatalities. These incidents often occur when a driver unintentionally crosses the centerline due to distraction, fatigue, poor visibility, or medical emergencies. Without barriers or divided lanes, rural highways are particularly vulnerable to such accidents.

Victims of head-on collisions and their families are often left facing serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens from medical bills, lost income, or funeral expenses. When another driver’s actions may have caused the crash, families have the right to explore legal action.

A knowledgeable wrongful death attorney can help investigate the crash, identify all liable parties, and assist families in pursuing the justice and compensation they deserve.

If your loved one has been the victim of a fatal crash, legal help is available. Dunk Law Firm is here to provide compassionate support and legal guidance. Call 414-209-4398 today to learn more about your rights and next steps.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.