Eight-Year-Old Dies in Chain Reaction Accident in Platte County

Four people were injured and an eight-year-old boy was killed in a chain reaction accident that occurred in a construction zone Saturday afternoon in Platte County.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a northbound 2014 Ford Explorer, driven by 39-year-old Cherlyn F. McWhirth of Raymore, was slowing for construction on I-29, just south of the 19.8 mile marker at 4:50 p.m., when it struck the rear of a northbound 2012 Toyota Prius, causing it to strike the rear of a northbound 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee, which then struck a northbound Ford F-150.

A passenger in the Prius, identified as an eight-year-old male from Montana, was killed in the wreck. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 5:38 p.m. by Battalion Chief Brett Lemons.

Three others in the Prius were injured, including a six-year-old female from Montana with moderate injuries, 63-year-old John W. Cosgrove from St. Louis with serious injuries, and 61-year-old Ruth A. Cosgrove from St. Louis with minor injuries.

McWhirth suffered moderate injuries. All of the injured were transported to area hospitals.

The Prius was totaled, while the Explorer had extensive damage. The Cherokee and F-150 had minor damage.

Platte County deputies assisted the seven Troopers at the scene.