Lafayette Co., MO – Woman Killed, Others Hurt in Head-On Crash on US-65 Hwy
Lafayette County, MO (January 18, 2026) – A deadly crash occurred as wintry road conditions contributed to a loss of control on US-65 Highway. The fatal accident happened around 6:33 p.m. on Friday, January 16.
A 28-year-old woman from Marshall was driving south on US-65 Hwy when her vehicle struck an icy patch. She lost control of her Ford Focus and collided head-on with an oncoming Ford Explorer.
The impact caused fatal injuries to the driver of the Ford Focus. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not released her identity.
The Ford Explorer carried four occupants from Chillicothe, including two adults and two young children. Two adults suffered moderate injuries, while a two-year-old girl and a four-year-old boy sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
Emergency units provided medical assistance at the scene. All four injured occupants were taken to a hospital in Carroll County for treatment and further evaluation. Officials did not release additional details about the sequence of events leading up to the collision.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the woman who lost her life. We also wish those hurt a rapid recovery.
Why Are Icy Roads So Dangerous for Drivers in Missouri?
Icy roads are dangerous because they sharply reduce tire traction and vehicle control, often without clear warning. A thin layer of ice can form even when roads appear wet, making steering and braking unpredictable. On highways, this loss of control increases the chance of vehicles crossing center lines, which can lead to serious head-on accidents.
Crashes caused by icy conditions often result in significant injuries due to sudden impacts and higher travel speeds. Drivers and passengers may experience broken bones, head injuries, chest trauma, or neck and back pain. Children in properly secured safety seats can still suffer minor injuries because of the force involved. Some physical symptoms may not appear right away, which is why medical checks are important after any winter collision.
A car accident lawyer can help explain how accidents involving icy roads are usually reviewed. This may include discussing how insurance companies assess fault, how weather conditions are considered, and what documents may be useful.
Legal guidance can also help clarify what types of compensation may be available and how medical records or hospital bills fit into the process. An attorney can answer questions and explain options without making assumptions about outcomes.
If you have questions after a winter vehicle accident, we can help provide clear information. To get clarity about next steps after a serious or fatal car crash, contact Dunk Law Firm at 414-209-4398. We can discuss how insurance communication, medical bills, and documentation may apply in your situation and explain your options moving forward.
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.
