Springfield, MO – Ronnie Wake, 56, of Springfield, has died following a motor vehicle crash that occurred Friday evening on West Chestnut Expressway. The incident marks the city’s 14th fatal crash of 2025, bringing the total number of roadway deaths this year to 15.
According to the Springfield Police Department (SPD), the crash happened on August 15, 2025, at approximately 8:59 p.m. in the 3200 block of West Chestnut Expressway. Officers said that Tyler Reid, 34, of Springfield, was driving a 2016 Jeep Compass eastbound when he struck two pedestrians who were in the roadway.
Both victims were transported to a local hospital. Tragically, Ronnie Wake later died from injuries sustained in the collision. Wake’s family has since been notified. The second pedestrian survived and is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
The Springfield Police Department has confirmed that the circumstances of the crash remain under investigation. Officials have not yet released further details regarding factors that may have contributed to the collision, such as speed, impairment, or visibility conditions at the time of the incident.
In a statement, SPD urged community members to come forward with any information that may assist investigators. Witnesses or individuals with knowledge of the crash are encouraged to call the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810, or to make an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477) or online at p3tips.com.
The loss of Ronnie Wake adds to a concerning trend of traffic fatalities in Springfield this year. City leaders and law enforcement officials have continued to emphasize roadway safety and pedestrian awareness as they seek to reduce the number of lives lost on local roads.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
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