MSHP Reports Eight Traffic Fatalities During Labor Day Counting Period

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reporting eight traffic fatalities and 82 injuries during the 2026 Labor Day holiday counting period.

According to preliminary statistics released by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the counting period began at 6 p.m. Friday, September 4, and continued through 11:59 p.m. Monday, September 7.

During that period, the Patrol investigated 213 traffic crashes statewide. Those crashes resulted in 82 injuries and eight fatalities. Troopers also made 123 arrests for driving while intoxicated.

The Patrol also reported nine boating crashes during the holiday period. One person was injured, but there were no boating fatalities and no drownings reported. Five arrests for boating while intoxicated were made.

The preliminary 2026 Labor Day statistics represent a decrease in the overall number of traffic crashes compared with last year's holiday period, but the number of traffic fatalities increased.

During the 2025 Labor Day holiday counting period, the Patrol investigated 252 traffic crashes involving four fatalities and 123 injuries.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the 2026 statistics are preliminary and may be subject to change as additional information becomes available.