Two Injured After Car Strikes Tree In Pettis County

A one-vehicle wreck in Pettis County injured two people on Monday afternoon.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a northbound 2003 Ford Escape, driven by 46-year-old Brian M. Welch of Sweet Springs, was on Walnut Grove, north of Little Muddy at 5:26 p.m. when the vehicle traveled off the road and struck a tree.

Welch suffered minor injuries and was transported to Bothwell Regional Health Center for treatment. A passenger, 38-year-old Lea R. Ulberg of Independence, suffered serious injuries, and was flown to St. Luke's on the Plaza by air ambulance. Neither were wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, according to the report.

The Ford was totaled and towed by Don's Truck Towing.

Pettis County deputies assisted the Patrol at the scene.