MILLER COUNTY, MO. (THECOUNT) — A fatal motorcycle crash near Lake of the Ozarks claimed the life of an Arizona woman early Sunday morning. The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) has reported that 35-year-old Larose Spencer, of Phoenix, Arizona, died after being ejected from the motorcycle she was riding on Missouri 242, also known as Horseshoe Bend Parkway.
The crash occurred around 12:20 a.m. on Sunday, according to the official MSHP crash report. The motorcycle, driven by a 26-year-old man, also from Phoenix, was traveling along Missouri 242 near the intersection with Route MM when the tragic accident happened.
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Crash Details:
According to investigators, the motorcycle veered off the left side of the road, striking the median before overturning. The force of the impact caused Spencer, the passenger, to be thrown from the bike. The motorcycle continued to skid across the roadway and eventually struck a curb on the right side.
Emergency personnel arrived on the scene shortly after the crash, but despite their efforts, Spencer was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, who sustained moderate injuries, was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Both the driver and Spencer were wearing helmets at the time of the crash, according to the MSHP report.
Investigation Ongoing:
The Missouri State Highway Patrol has not yet provided details on what may have caused the motorcycle to leave the road. Investigators are continuing to review the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the condition of the road and any potential contributing factors such as speed, weather conditions, or mechanical failure of the motorcycle.
Missouri 242, commonly referred to as Horseshoe Bend Parkway, is a winding stretch of road popular among both local residents and tourists visiting the Lake of the Ozarks region. While it offers scenic views of the area, the road can be dangerous, especially during nighttime hours when visibility is reduced.
Fatalities on the Rise:
This fatal crash marks the 32nd fatal accident reported by MSHP Troop F in 2024. The Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop F, which covers a large portion of central Missouri, including the Lake of the Ozarks area, has seen a rise in fatal accidents this year. The increase in motorcycle accidents specifically has prompted renewed calls for road safety and awareness, particularly in areas frequented by motorcyclists.
The combination of winding roads, increased traffic, and a growing number of visitors to the Lake of the Ozarks has made it an area of concern for local authorities. MSHP continues to urge drivers to exercise caution, particularly on rural roads where sharp curves and limited lighting can increase the risk of accidents. Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable, as they lack the protective structure of a car and can be more easily thrown from their vehicle during a crash.
Safety Precautions and Awareness:
Authorities have consistently emphasized the importance of wearing helmets and other protective gear while riding motorcycles. In this case, both the driver and passenger were wearing helmets, though it was not enough to save Spencer’s life due to the severity of the crash.
The MSHP is also reminding drivers to stay alert and drive defensively, particularly in areas known for motorcycle traffic. Speed limits should be adhered to, and extra caution should be taken on roads with sharp turns or limited visibility, especially at night.
Community Impact:
The tragic death of Larose Spencer has left a mark on both the local community in Missouri and her home in Phoenix, Arizona. Spencer, who also had ties to Farmington, New Mexico, was visiting the Lake of the Ozarks region with the motorcycle driver at the time of the crash. The incident highlights the need for increased awareness around motorcycle safety, not just for riders but for all drivers sharing the road.
Local authorities are asking anyone with information regarding the crash to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol as they continue their investigation.
Conclusion:
The loss of life in this accident is a sobering reminder of the dangers that exist on the roadways, particularly for motorcyclists. With the increase in fatal crashes in the region, MSHP is reiterating the need for drivers to remain cautious and attentive while traveling, especially in areas like the Lake of the Ozarks that attract a large number of tourists and riders.
Miller County is a county located in the U.S. state of Missouri. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 24,722. Its county seat is Tuscumbia. The county was organized February 6, 1837, and named for John Miller, former U.S. Representative and Governor of Missouri.
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