MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop E Headquarters - 4947 Highway 67 North - Poplar Bluff, MO 63901


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Dale H. Moreland
(573) 840-9500
E010202
January 5, 2010

EMPHASIS: 2009 Troop E Christmas And New Year's Traffic Totals


Captain George E. Ridens, commanding officer of Troop E, announces the traffic crash and enforcement totals for both the Christmas and New Year's counting periods for the Troop E area.
During the Christmas counting period, which began at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, December 24, 2009, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday December 27, 2009, Troop E officers investigated 32 traffic crashes, which resulted in five fatalities and 24 injuries. Troopers also made five arrests for driving while intoxicated.
During the New Year's counting period, which began at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, December 31, 2009, and ended at 11:59 p.m., on Sunday, January 3, 2010, Troop E officers investigated 21 crashes resulting in eight injuries, but no fatalities. Troopers made 14 arrests for driving while intoxicated.
Captain Ridens stated, "Unfortunately, we had an increase in fatalities in Troop E this year ending with 74 fatalities, which is three more than during 2008. I urge motorists to help keep our highways safer by paying attention, slowing down, obeying all traffic laws, and always buckling up while traveling in Southeast Missouri. Also, if you choose to drink, don’t drive."

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