SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) – Two people have died after a crash involving a car and a motorcycle Saturday night.
According to the Springfield Police Department, before 8 p.m., a silver Nissan Altima was driving north on National Avenue and began turning left on Pythian Street. A green 2023 Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle was heading south on National when it crashed into the Nissan.
The motorcyclist, 19-year-old Caleb Watts of Springfield, and the passenger of the car, 50-year-old Laura Lane, both died at the scene. The driver of the car, a 21-year-old woman, was taken to the hospital with moderate injuries.
Police say speed is thought to be a factor in the crash. Anyone with any information about the crash is encouraged to contact the Springfield Police Department.
SPD Sergeant Justin Thorn says the stretch where the accident happened is a hotbed for speeding activity.
“Along National, there’s not a lot of stoplights,” said Sgt. Thorn. “It’s pretty common along the stretch to see people pick up speed. We usually do a lot of speed enforcement, actually right at the top of the hill. There’s a good place along this stretch of national to do speed enforcement.”
Watts’ sister, Taylor Gibbs, says she wants her brother’s memory to help drivers to make the right call on the road.
“Please drive safe,” said Gibbs. “I know in the moment when you’re riding, you’re not thinking about yourself or anyone, you’re just enjoying the ride. I get that because that is what Caleb would do and what he was doing. And now he doesn’t get to do that anymore. So please think about the people who love you.”
This marks the 20th fatal motor vehicle crash in Springfield in 2023.
To report a correction or typo, please email digitalnews@ky3.com
Copyright 2023 KY3. All rights reserved.
Two people killed after a crash involving a car and a motorcycle in Springfield – KY3
