Marina
On Thursday, June 12, 2025, just before 10:40 a.m. CDT, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) and EMS responded to a fatal multi‑vehicle crash on westbound Interstate 44, near Arsenal Street in south St. Louis.
The collision involved a Toyota Avalon and a Ford F-250, resulting in the tragic death of an 18‑year‑old male teen.
Sequence of Events
- A Toyota Avalon, driven by the teen, was seen traveling at high speed westbound on I‑44.
- While attempting a lane change, the Avalon lost control, began to rotate, then T‑boned the rear driver’s side of a Ford F‑250 .
- The side of the Toyota became wedged under the rear of the pickup.
- The teen driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
- The Ford F‑250 driver escaped without injuries.
- SLMPD’s accident reconstruction team is actively investigating.
Immediate Aftermath
Authorities closed multiple lanes of westbound I‑44 at Arsenal to secure the scene and allow the accident reconstruction unit to work safely .SLMPD asked motorists to avoid the area, leading to traffic delays throughout morning rush hour.
Crash Facts Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | June 12, 2025, approx. 10:35–10:40 a.m. CDT |
| Location | Westbound I‑44 near Arsenal Street, south St. Louis, MO |
| Vehicles Involved | Toyota Avalon, Ford F‑250 |
| Victim | 18‑year‑old male teen (Toyota driver), fatality |
| Injuries to Others | Ford F‑250 driver: no injuries |
| Police Response | SLMPD, EMS, accident reconstruction team |
| Road Status | Westbound lanes closed; traffic rerouted |
| Investigation Status | Active; SLMPD investigating speed, fault, contributing factors |
What Officials Know So Far
SLMPD confirmed the teen driver was pronounced dead at the scene by EMS.Details regarding the teen’s identity have not been released, pending family notification and further investigation.
The Ford F‑250 driver remains unharmed. SLMPD’s reconstruction unit is examining whether speed, lane change, or any mechanical issues contributed to the collision.
Impact on Traffic & Community
The crash led to lane closures and significant traffic congestion on a major commuter route during peak hours.
SLMPD is urging drivers to seek alternate routes and to drive cautiously, especially in high traffic zones. The incident has sparked local safety concerns, including questions about speed enforcement and road design near Arsenal Street
Safety and Prevention
This tragedy highlights the dangers of high-speed driving, especially during lane changes at peak speeds. Traffic safety advocates advocate:
- Reduced speed limits
- Increased speed enforcement measures
- Public awareness campaigns to drive defensively
- Improved signage and lane markings on I‑44
An 18‑year‑old teen lost their life in a catastrophic multi‑vehicle crash on I‑44 near Arsenal Street on June 12, 2025. With the Ford F‑250 driver uninjured, SLMPD continues its thorough investigation, closing lanes and advising caution to motorists.
This incident serves as a deadly reminder: high-speed lane changes can have irreversible consequences. As traffic resumes, authorities urge vigilance and safer driving habits to prevent future tragedies.