05/21/2026
Update:
Following an accident investigation, the Monett Police Department determined that a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado was being driven by Nelson Molena a 28-year-old male of Tulsa, Oklahoma, on US 60 and made a right turn to go north on S. Lincoln Ave. (MO 37). While turning north onto S. Lincoln Ave. (MO 37), the Silverado crossed into the turn lane occupied by the Monett police vehicle. The Silverado lost control during the turn and began to skid, sliding into the patrol car and another civilian vehicle. The trailer being pulled by the Silverado overturned onto the patrol car and civilian vehicle in their lanes of travel, causing significant damage. The driver was determined to have been driving at excessive speeds while making the turn when hauling heavy machinery. No serious injuries were reported during this incident.
Following the collision, the driver was determined to be an unlicensed operator. The driver was arrested and later released from the Monett City Jail on summons to appear for driving without an operator's license, careless and imprudent driving, and failure to drive on the right side of the roadway.
###X
Original Post:
Monett, MO — On May 20th, 2026, at approximately 6:05 PM CDT, a Monett Police Department officer was involved in a motor vehicle crash with a civilian vehicle pulling a trailer hauling heavy machinery at US 60 and S. Lincoln Ave. (MO 37). No injuries have been reported. Both the Monett Police vehicle and trailer equipment sustained extensive damage and were towed from the scene.
This traffic crash is currently under investigation.
Media contact:
Cpl. S. Berry
Monett Police Department
Phone: 417-235-4241 Opt. 2 | Email: [email protected]
