Johnny Alford Dies in Big Rig Crash on MO 171

Carl Junction Deadly Crash Injures Pickup Passengers

Carl Junction, MO (February 24, 2026) – A pickup truck driver, Johnny Alford, 68, of Carl Junction, was killed in a big rig crash on MO 171 Sunday evening.

It was before 7 p.m. when the fatal crash happened at Ivy Road, the north edge of Carl Junction.

Investigators determined that a 2004 Dodge Ram pickup truck on Ivy Road drove onto the big rig traveling south on MO 171.

As a result, the big rig t-boned the pickup, and both traveled off the east side of the curve.

The 24-year old Greeley man who was driving that 2022 Kenworth sustained moderate injuries.

A 2004 Dodge Ram pickup was being driven by a 68-year old man from Carl Junction. He suffered serious injuries. Two passengers in the pickup. A 65-year-old female suffered serious injuries, and a 3-year old male toddler suffered minor injuries.

Alford, who was driving the Dodge, was rushed to a hospital in Joplin, where he later died. One of his passengers, 65 year old female, was airlifted to a Springfield hospital. Another passenger in the pickup truck, a 3-year old boy, suffered minor injuries.

Sweet Lawyers extends sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Johnny Alford. We hope they find comfort and support as they navigate this tragic loss.

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