News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant D.S. Bracker
(417)895-6767 ext.253
D2008-12
March 18, 2008

EMPHASIS: Traffic Crash Claims Life Of MoDOT Employee


Today, March 18, 2008, at approximately 5:15 a.m., Joshua L. Slatten, of Springfield, MO, was traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 65. Slatten was killed in a head-on collision involving a southbound tractor-trailer driven by Robert D. Christian, of DeSoto, MO.

Slatten, a MoDOT employee, was on duty at the time of the crash. Slatten was pronounced dead at the scene by the Green County Medical Examiner David Brown. The other driver, Robert Christian, was transported to a Springfield hospital.

The crash is being reconstructed by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Troop D, crash team. Due to inclement weather conditions at the crash site, and the poor condition of both vehicles as a result of the crash, particulars of the investigation are unavailable at this time. The crash investigation is ongoing. Any questions regarding Slatten should be directed to Bob Edwards, Missouri Department Of Transportation, at 417-895-7600.

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