Arizona man dies after multi-vehicle crash on I-44 near Strafford

UPDATE 3:40 PM - MSHP says in a report that a 55-year-old Arizona man died in the crash on Tuesday morning. Law enforcement explains that the crash occurred around 7:45 a.m. as the 55-year-old Avondale, Arizona, man made a lane change while driving a semi, striking a 32-year-old Marshfield man's vehicle. The Marshfield man reportedly struck the rear of a 39-year-old Strafford man's towed unit during the incident. The Arizona man's semi struck another semi being driven by a 38-year-old Springfield man, which caused the second semi to travel off the road and overturn. MSHP says the Arizona man's semi caught fire. Officials report the Arizona man was pronounced dead on the scene, with it being unknown if he was wearing a seatbelt. The next of kin has been notified of his death. This is the 32nd fatality for Troop D in 2026. UPDATE 1 PM - Both lanes of I-44 have reopened, according to MoDOT. Original Story (4/7/26, 10:50 a.m.): WEBSTER COUNTY, Mo. — I-44 is closed in both directions east of Strafford on Tuesday morning due to a multi-vehicle crash. The crash occurred just before 8 a.m. at mile marker 92 of I-44, according to MoDOT. At least three vehicles are involved, including a semi-truck. Missouri State Highway Patrol, Strafford Fire and local police agencies are on scene working to clear the roadway and investigate the crash. Ozarks First is still waiting to hear back on if there are any fatalities or injuries in the crash. Eastbound traffic is being diverted to MO-125 in Strafford, and MoDOT urges drivers to use alternate routes. MoDOT also estimates the closure to last for a few more hours.