A fatal four-vehicle collision occurred on August 21, 2024, at 7:04 a.m. on Highway 60, 3.5 miles east of Seneca, Missouri. The crash resulted in one fatality and multiple serious injuries.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the accident happened as three vehicles were stopped for a school bus. A 2020 RAM 2500, driven by Donald R. Larmon, 72, of Jay, Oklahoma, crested a hill and struck a 2008 Dodge Nitro from behind. The impact caused the Dodge Nitro to veer off the roadway. The RAM 2500 then collided with a 2022 Volvo tractor-trailer and a 2012 Dodge Ram, which were both stopped in the eastbound lane.
The 2008 Dodge Nitro was totaled, and its driver, Autumn J. Qualls, 42, of Seneca, Missouri, was pronounced dead at the scene by Newton County Deputy Coroner J. Deems.
The 2020 RAM 2500 was also totaled. The driver and two passengers in the RAM 2500 sustained serious injuries and were transported to Mercy Joplin for treatment.
Injured:
- Autumn J. Qualls, 42 – Fatal injuries, transported to Campbell-Biddlecone Funeral Home, Seneca, Missouri.
- Donald R. Larmon, 72 – Serious injuries, transported to Mercy Joplin via EMS.
- David L. Quinn, 74 – Serious injuries, transported to Mercy Joplin via EMS.
- Curtis L. Larmon, 76 – Serious injuries, transported via air ambulance to Mercy Joplin.
The Volvo tractor-trailer sustained moderate damage and was towed from the scene. The 2012 Dodge Ram sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene.
The accident is being investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, with assistance from the Newton County Sheriff’s Department.
