Nine Killed in Missouri During July Fourth Holiday Travel Period

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - The Missouri State Highway Patrol has released preliminary statistics from the 2026 July Fourth holiday enforcement period, reporting nine traffic fatalities across the state.

The holiday counting period began at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 2, and continued through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 5.

During that time, troopers investigated 235 traffic crashes resulting in 113 injuries and nine deaths. In addition, the Patrol arrested 125 drivers for driving while intoxicated.

On Missouri waterways, the Patrol investigated three boating crashes that injured three people. While no boating fatalities were reported, three drowning deaths occurred during the holiday weekend. Troopers also made nine arrests for boating while intoxicated.

Compared to last year's holiday period, traffic crashes declined. During the 2025 July Fourth holiday reporting period, the Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated 273 traffic crashes involving nine fatalities and 138 injuries. Statewide in 2025, there were 993 vehicle crashes that resulted in 13 deaths and 414 injuries. Troopers also investigated 11 boating crashes during last year's holiday weekend.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reminds motorists and boaters to drive responsibly, avoid impaired driving, wear seat belts and life jackets, and remain alert throughout the busy summer travel season.