Teenagers Seriously Injured in ATV Crash Outside Odessa

Two teens were hospitalized after their all-terrain vehicle overturned on private property.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:13pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged ATV component, such as a broken wheel or crumpled fender, lit by a harsh, direct flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the gritty aftermath of the crash.The aftermath of an ATV crash that left two teenagers seriously injured highlights the dangers of operating all-terrain vehicles without proper safety precautions.Kansas City Today

Two teenagers were seriously injured when the all-terrain vehicle they were riding overturned on private property in Lafayette County, Missouri on Sunday afternoon. A 16-year-old girl from Kansas City was driving the ATV along Varner Road southeast of Odessa when it crashed, ejecting both her and an 18-year-old male passenger from Odessa. Both were transported to a Kansas City hospital with serious injuries, and neither was wearing proper safety gear at the time of the incident.

Why it matters

ATV accidents are a common cause of injury, especially among young, inexperienced riders. This incident highlights the importance of proper safety precautions and supervision when operating all-terrain vehicles, particularly on private property where there may be uneven terrain or other hazards.

The details

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the ATV crash occurred around 2:40 p.m. on Sunday, April 5th on private property along Varner Road, about 3 miles southeast of Odessa. The 16-year-old female driver from Kansas City lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn and eject both her and her 18-year-old male passenger from Odessa. Both teenagers suffered serious injuries and were transported by ambulance to a hospital in Kansas City.

  • The ATV crash occurred around 2:40 p.m. on Sunday, April 5th.

The players

16-year-old girl

A teenager from Kansas City who was driving the ATV when it overturned.

18-year-old male

A teenager from Odessa who was a passenger on the ATV when it crashed.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the risks associated with operating ATVs, especially for young, inexperienced riders. It underscores the importance of proper safety gear, supervision, and caution when using all-terrain vehicles, particularly in remote or uneven terrain.