Jackson, MO – Pedestrian Killed in Early Morning Crash on I-70

Jackson, MO (May 25, 2025) – A tragic incident claimed the life of a pedestrian during the early morning hours of May 24 on Interstate 70 near the 21.8 mile marker in Jackson County. According to reports from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 5:04 a.m. and involved two westbound vehicles.

Authorities say a 42-year-old woman from Independence, Missouri was walking on the interstate when she was struck by a 2021 Mazda CX-5, driven by a 48-year-old man from Odessa. Following the initial collision, the woman was hit a second time by a 2016 Dodge Ram operated by a 39-year-old man from Grain Valley. The Mazda sustained extensive damage and was towed from the scene, while the Dodge Ram was driven away.

The pedestrian, identified only as a female at this time, was pronounced deceased on the scene by Paramedic Brazil at 5:10 a.m. Her body was later transported by the Jackson County Medical Examiner. Authorities have confirmed that next of kin have been notified. The incident marks Troop A’s 26th fatal crash and 29th fatality in 2025.

Multiple troopers assisted at the scene, along with the Blue Springs Police Department. Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding this fatal crash.

We send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the victim during this difficult time.

Pedestrian Accidents in Missouri

Pedestrian accidents in Missouri continue to be a serious concern. In 2023 alone, the Missouri Department of Transportation reported over 1,000 pedestrian-related crashes. Among those incidents, more than 100 resulted in fatalities. As pedestrian traffic increases across the state’s roadways, understanding the risks is more important than ever.

Many families are left seeking answers after such tragedies. Below are key issues related to pedestrian collisions that highlight how these accidents often occur:

• Driver Inattention: One of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who are texting, adjusting navigation systems, or looking away from the road may not see a pedestrian in time. Just a few seconds of distraction can have fatal consequences.
• Poor Lighting Conditions: Crashes often happen in low-light settings, such as early morning or nighttime. Pedestrians may be difficult to see, especially if wearing dark clothing. Proper street lighting and pedestrian visibility gear can help reduce risk.
• Walking on or Near High-Speed Roadways: Interstates and highways are designed for fast-moving traffic. Pedestrians on these roads are at extreme risk, as vehicles may not be able to stop in time to avoid a collision. Unfortunately, some individuals find themselves walking along these roads due to vehicle breakdowns or emergencies.
• Lack of Sidewalks or Crosswalks: In areas where pedestrian infrastructure is lacking, individuals may be forced to walk close to traffic lanes. Without marked crosswalks or sidewalks, drivers may not anticipate encountering a pedestrian, increasing the chance of a crash.

If someone you love has been affected by a crash involving a pedestrian, it is essential to speak with a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. A compassionate and brave legal team, such as ours at Wallentine Injury Law, can help gather evidence, talk to witnesses, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Time is critical after these accidents, and taking action quickly can make all the difference.

At Wallentine Injury Law, we’re here for you. Our team offers free consultations and is ready to stand by your side during this time. With deep roots in the Kansas City area, our firm understands how difficult it is to lose a loved one in such sudden and tragic circumstances. We’ll take the time to listen and explain your legal options. You don’t need to face this process alone. Call our team today at 913-934-6333 to get started. We’ll treat your case with the attention and care it deserves. Let us help you move forward with clarity and purpose.

Notes: Our writers utilized secondary sources when writing this news article about an accident. We have not independently reviewed all of the circumstances surrounding this accident; therefore, please get in touch with Wallentine Injury Law, LLC right away if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will update the post with the most accurate information currently available.  A post will be removed upon request.

Disclaimer: We hope that by raising awareness about driving hazards, drivers will be more cautious when operating a motor vehicle and avoid being seriously injured in a collision. This accident news post is not a business solicitation. The content of this post is not intended to serve as medical or legal advice. This post’s featured image was not captured at the accident scene depicted in the post.