Traffic Incidents Decrease Over Memorial Day Weekend

Traffic crashes, injuries and deaths were down over the 2021 Memorial Day Weekend compared to 2020, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The preliminary report indicates that 6 people died in traffic crashes over the holiday weekend. Last year the Highway Patrol recorded 10 fatalities on Missouri roads. In 2020 Troopers investigated 310 vehicle crashes which included 126 injuries; this year the number of crashes fell to 270 with only 82 injuries.

Incidents on Missouri waterways were also slightly down this year compared to 2020. Over the 2020 Memorial Day holiday Troopers investigated 11 boating crashes involving 7 injuries, and 1 fatality. This year the preliminary report shows 10 boating crashes, 2 injuries and 1 fatality.

Law enforcement activities decreased in the 2021 report as well showing 112 DWI arrests compared to 118 arrests last year. Troopers made 79 drug arrests on land and water last weekend.

During major holidays the Missouri State Highway Patrol participates in Operation C.A.R.E., or Crash Awareness Reduction Effort. This means every available Trooper is on the road enforcing traffic laws and assisting motorists. The 2021 Memorial Day weekend counting period began at 6 pm, Friday, May 28, and concluded at 11:59 pm, Monday, May 31, 2021.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story