Single Vehicle Accident Claims Life of Lawson Teen, Seriously Injures Another

Ray County, MO – Two boys from Lawson, MO were involved in a single-vehicle accident that occurred Friday evening, resulting in the death of the 17-year-old driver, and leaving the 15-year-old passenger, with serious injuries. The crash took place at 8:58 PM on Atkins Road, half a mile north of Route C.

According to the official crash report, the incident involved a single vehicle, a 2002 Ford Truck. The vehicle was headed northbound when it crested a hill on the gravel road and the driver subsequently lost control. The truck began to skid, traveled off the left side of the roadway, overturned, and struck a tree before coming to a rest.

The driver of the vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Ray County Coroner at 9:00 PM. The 15-year-old passenger sustained severe injuries and was transported by Life-Flight to Children’s Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, MO.

Updates on the injured boy are being provided on the Lawson Announcements Facebook Group, where a family friend reported, “Very early this morning, he opened his eyes, responded to his name, and had tears. He knew his parents and would respond with blinks and tiny left-hand squeezes.”

A vigil for the boy who was lost was arranged at his home, where friends and family left gifts and mementos on the hood of the truck he had been working to restore.

As it is made available, we will update this story with more information, including fundraising links and vigil information. Our hearts are with our neighbors in Lawson.

Updated 9/18/23 at 7:10pm:
 
Memorial funds have been set up at Goppert Bank in Lawson for both the young men. For checks please make to: 

For Carson: Memorial fund of Carson Robinette
For Lennon: Care fund of Lennon Stewart

There will be a Candlelight Vigil for Carson Robinette on Tuesday, September 19th at 7:00pm at Lawson Park. Carson was a truck enthusiast and his family and friends are encouraging anyone with a truck to bring it to the memorial. 

Tasty Unicorn will also be on site Tuesday at the memorial serving ice cream with a suggested donation of $5. All of the donations will be split between both families.