MoDot’s safety mascot burned in Jefferson City

Drivers might have noticed a popular mainstay is now missing from the side of the road, after vandals set it on fire in Jefferson City. MoDot’s 10-foot tall orange mascot, Barrel Bob, was burned earlier this week near Highway 50, and will be out of commission for at least two weeks.

The safety feature was built to remind people to slow down in work zones.

But after Tuesday evening, he was found with severe burns on his base. Both legs will have to be replaced, including one that was completely melted.

Bob went into the shop on Wednesday for repairs, and his exact return date has not been set.