Two drivers were killed Thursday morning in a three-vehicle crash on Highway 5 near Kingsbrook Road, about one mile north of Lebanon, Laclede County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 7:01 a.m. on October 22, 2026, involving a 2022 Kia Forte, a 2019 Ford F-150, and a 2018 Toyota Tacoma.
The Kia Forte, driven by a 41-year-old man from Springfield, was traveling southbound when it crossed the center line, sideswiping the northbound Ford F-150, driven by a 69-year-old man from Stoutland.
Following the collision with the Ford, the Kia collided head-on with the northbound Toyota Tacoma, driven by a 31-year-old woman from Lebanon.
The driver of the Kia was pronounced dead at the scene at 7:25 a.m. The Lebanon woman suffered fatal injuries and was transported to Mercy Hospital where she was pronounced dead at 8:12 a.m.
All three drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. No injuries were reported for the driver of the Ford F-150.
The Kia Forte and Toyota Tacoma were totaled, while the Ford F-150 sustained moderate damage. C&S Towing removed all vehicles from the scene.
This incident marks the fifth and sixth traffic fatalities investigated by Troop I in October 2026 and the 34th and 35th fatalities for the troop this year.
The collision is under investigation by Trooper R.K. Evans and Master Sergeant P.W. Meyers of the Highway Patrol’s Major Crash Investigation Unit, with assistance from additional law enforcement and emergency services.