Cattle Truck Crash in Kansas City Leaves Cows Roaming Streets

More than 120 cattle were involved in a crash early Sunday in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. The incident left cattle wandering highways and city streets as authorities struggled to locate them.

Search Efforts

Sergeant Phil DiMartino from the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD) stated the search began before 5 a.m. Several cows remain missing after a cow trailer crash, though the exact number is unknown. The Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD) responded to the incident, which occurred on Interstate 70 near Admiral Boulevard around 3 a.m.

Crash Details

The collision involved two vehicles. A semi-truck carrying cattle fell from a bridge onto another vehicle. This left both drivers critically injured and requiring hospital care. Some cattle died, while others escaped or remained in the trailer.

Authorities responded by closing the east side of the downtown loop to manage the scene and search for the cows. The escaped cattle were reported across a three-mile area in the Kansas City metro. They were spotted near Crown Center and as far away as Kansas City, Kansas.

Road Cleanup

The crash resulted in a diesel spill on the highway. Crews worked to clean the spill, according to KSHB 41, citing KCFD Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

Technology and Resources

Local media reported that KCPD deployed additional resources to wrangle the cattle. Drones and thermal imaging technology assisted in locating the animals. Firefighters also tried herding cattle near the highway.

Authorities advised drivers to exercise caution while crews cleared the area and searched for missing cattle. If anyone spots a cow, they are encouraged to contact the KCPD at 816-234-5111 or the KCFD at 816-924-0600.