28-Year-Old Butler Man Killed in Motorcycle Crash in Bates County
BATES COUNTY, MO — A 28-year-old man from Butler died in a motorcycle accident at the intersection of Highway 52 and Interstate 49 on Friday, June 12, 2026, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred around 11:00 a.m. when a 2009 Harley-Davidson Dyna motorcycle, traveling westbound on Highway 52, collided with a unit being towed by a 2008 Ford E350 making a left turn. Authorities reported the motorcyclist was not wearing a helmet and was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:13 a.m. by a Bates County Paramedic.
The driver of the Ford E350, a 65-year-old man from Polo, Missouri, was wearing a seat belt and did not sustain injuries. The Ford incurred minor damage and was driven from the scene. In contrast, the Harley-Davidson was totaled and subsequently towed by R B Tow.
The Missouri State Highway Patrol confirmed that next of kin had been notified. This incident marks the 26th fatal crash and the 29th traffic fatality reported by Troop A in 2026.