Carthage man ejected from scooter on I-44, struck by multiple vehicles, killed

(From the Joplin Police Department)

On Sunday, June 5th, 2022 at approximately 2:29 am, the Joplin Police Department Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call of a vehicle crash on I-44 east bound near the 4.5 mile marker involving a motorcyclist. 

Officers with the Joplin Police Department, along with EMS units, responded to the scene and located the operator of the motorcycle deceased in the roadway. 

It was determined the individual was operating a motorized scooter in the outside line of I-44 eastbound, lost control, crashed and was ejected from the scooter during the crash. 

Following the ejection from the scooter, he was struck by multiple passing vehicles. 

The driver of the scooter was identified as Juan Fuentes, Jr., age 44 of Carthage, Missouri. Next of kin has been notified. 

 The investigation into this crash is being conducted by the Joplin Police Department Major Crash Team. That investigation is ongoing at this time. Investigators are attempting to locate any witnesses who may have observed the initial crash. 

If you, or someone you know, saw the crash take place, you are encouraged to contact Sergeant Jared Delzell at 417-623-3131 x1633 or at jdelzell@joplinmo.org. Further updates may be released as they become available.