JOPLIN, Mo. (KOAM/KJFX) — A serious motorcycle crash occurred on I-44 eastbound near exit 13 at approximately 9:50 a.m. on July 10, 2026.
Joplin Police, Fire, and METS Ambulance responded to the scene. According to authorities, the motorcyclist lost control and crashed alone, resulting in the rider being ejected from the motorcycle at high speed while wearing a helmet.
Witnesses reported that life-saving measures were performed at the scene before the male motorcyclist was transported to a local hospital with critical injuries.
The Joplin Police Major Crash Team is investigating the incident. Preliminary findings indicate a rear tire blowout may have caused the crash, which took place in the right lane of the highway.
Traffic on I-44 resumed normal flow around 12:30 p.m.
This story is developing, and further updates will follow as more information becomes available.