Rockaway Beach, MO – Icy Crash on Rte EE West of Rockaway Beach Claims One Life

Rockaway Beach, MO (January 23, 2026) – A fatal crash was reported Wednesday morning, January 21, on Route EE about a half mile west of Rockaway Beach in Taney County. One man was killed after being struck during icy road conditions.

The crash occurred around 6:58 a.m. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a Dodge Ram 2500 became disabled in the roadway due to black ice. The driver, a 58-year-old man from Merriam Woods, exited the vehicle and was standing outside as a pedestrian.

A Ford Expedition traveling west then lost control on the ice. The vehicle slid across the center of the roadway and struck both the pedestrian and the disabled pickup. After the impact, the Ford traveled off the roadway.

The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The 54-year-old female driver of the Ford Expedition sustained no reported injuries. Authorities have not released further details about visibility or additional contributing factors.

Emergency units responded to the scene to assist and secure the area. The roadway experienced disruption as officials documented the crash and addressed hazardous conditions.

The crash remains under investigation. Additional details may become available as authorities continue their review.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of the deceased victim from the collision.

What Makes Black Ice So Dangerous for Drivers and Pedestrians on Route EE Near Rockaway Beach?

Black ice is one of the most hazardous winter road conditions because it is difficult to see and can form quickly without warning. On routes like Route EE near Rockaway Beach, shaded stretches, bridges, and low-lying areas are especially prone to icing during early morning hours. Drivers may believe the pavement is clear until they suddenly lose traction, leaving little time to react or slow down safely.

When vehicles encounter black ice, steering and braking can become unpredictable. Even at lower speeds, a car or truck may slide across lanes or off the roadway entirely. This sudden loss of control creates serious danger not only for drivers but also for anyone outside a vehicle. Pedestrians near disabled cars or roadside incidents are especially vulnerable because approaching drivers may be unable to stop or maneuver away in time.

Pedestrians involved in winter crashes face heightened risk due to the lack of physical protection. A sliding vehicle can cause severe or fatal injuries in a matter of seconds. Standing outside a disabled vehicle on an icy roadway increases exposure to traffic that may already be struggling with limited traction. In fatal cases, families are often left with questions about insurance coverage, liability, and next steps. Speaking with a wrongful death attorney may help clarify how these situations are commonly reviewed and your options.

Our team is experienced in reviewing winter crash scenarios, insurance issues, and necessary documentation, helping people understand how injury and fatal crash cases are typically managed. A lawyer is available to explain what types of compensation may be available and clarify your legal options based on the specific facts of your case. If you have questions following a winter-related crash near Rockaway Beach, contact Dunk Law Firm at 414-209-4398 to discuss your possibilities.

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.