Newton County, MO — January 21st, 2025, Dwayne Gray was killed following a car accident that occurred at around 7:00 A.M. on Mo-86.

An investigation is underway following a car accident that left one person dead during the morning hours of January 21st. According to official reports, a Jeep operated by Dwayne Gray was traveling in the westbound lanes of Mo-86 near attempted to pass a vehicle when it collided with an oncoming Toyota.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that both vehicles sustained serious damage, and that the Gray suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased, while the Toyota driver was transported to the hospital for treatment to their injuries. This remains an ongoing investigation and more details may be released in the future.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a head-on collision occurs, it is crucial to thoroughly investigate the cause to understand what led to such a severe outcome. This process begins with three key questions: Did the authorities conduct a comprehensive investigation? Has anyone considered the possibility of a vehicle defect? And has all the electronic data related to the crash been collected?

The first question addresses the depth of the authorities’ investigation. Head-on collisions often result in catastrophic damage, and it’s essential to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the crash. Investigators should examine the roadway for factors such as visibility, signage, and lane markings, as well as evaluate whether the passing maneuver by the Jeep was executed safely or if other elements, such as road conditions or unexpected obstacles, played a role. Witness accounts and any available surveillance or traffic camera footage should also be reviewed to provide additional context.

The second question asks whether a vehicle defect could have contributed to the crash. Mechanical failures, such as brake issues, steering malfunctions, or problems with the vehicle’s safety systems, could have made it difficult for either driver to avoid the collision. For example, if the Jeep’s passing maneuver was affected by a defect in acceleration or handling, this would be a critical factor to uncover. Similarly, examining the crashworthiness of both vehicles, particularly the Toyota, can help determine whether their safety systems performed as expected. Preserving access to both vehicles for forensic examination is essential to identifying any potential defects.

The third question focuses on whether all electronic data has been collected. Modern vehicles are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) that store critical information, such as speed, braking, and steering inputs, in the moments leading up to a crash. This data can be invaluable in understanding the drivers’ actions and whether any mechanical issues were present. Additionally, obtaining cell phone records could reveal whether distraction played a role, while surveillance footage or dashcam recordings, if available, could provide visual evidence of the incident. Ensuring that this data is preserved quickly is critical, as it can be lost or overwritten if not promptly secured.

By addressing these three questions, investigators can work toward uncovering the full picture of what caused this crash. For the loved ones of the individual who lost their life, finding these answers is an important step toward understanding what happened and ensuring accountability. Thorough investigations not only provide closure but also help identify ways to prevent similar incidents in the future. It is our shared responsibility to ensure that every crash is carefully examined and no detail is overlooked.