Highway Patrol reports at least 19 crashes across Missouri since holiday counting period began

COLUMBIA, Mo (KMIZ)

At 12:20 Friday afternoon, Columbia Fire got a call about a wreck at the intersection of Stadium Blvd. and West Rollins Rd.     

Columbia fire said three people went to University Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.       

There was a deadly crash today in Osage County also involving two vehicles.    

Reports say one of the vehicles crossed the center line and hit the other head-on, killing 32-year-old Zachary Sutton. 

The other driver 18-year-old Bryce Blankenship has moderate injuries.

Missouri Highway Patrol counting started Thursday at 6:30 p.m. and will end Sunday night.  

At last check Friday night at 7:00pm, Missouri crash reports now show a total of 19-vehicle crashes for the period, only two in mid-Missouri.

MSHP Corporal Kyle Green says cell phones are to blame for many of the crashes happening on the roadways.

"Sometimes people will say they didn't realize they were speeding because they were looking down at their phone, you know. It's just a simple reminder that putting down that phone can make a huge difference out here and reduce a lot of the crashes that we have," Green said.

Troopers also encourage everyone in vehicles to wear seat belts. MSHP wants travelers to make sure they are well rested and that their vehicle is in good working condition, no matter how long the distance, and to check weather forecasts.

MSHP says if you are planning to drink this holiday season, make sure you have a plan ahead of time to coordinate a designated driver.

If you are faced with a traffic emergency, you're asked to call 9-1-1.

If you witness any traffic issues or a crime, you can also contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol at 1-800-525-555 or dial *55. The number will ring you to the nearest Highway Patrol headquarters.