Local News
Motorcyclist Michael Wolcott Killed in High-Speed Crash Involving Commercial Truck in Platte County
RIVERSIDE — Authorities in Platte County are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash involving a commercial vehicle that occurred Wednesday morning, April 22, in Riverside.
According to the Riverside Police Department, officers initially responded at approximately 9:00 a.m. to a serious motor vehicle collision on NW Mattox Road, just north of NW 43rd Street.
Due to the severity of injuries and the involvement of a commercial truck, the Platte County Sheriff’s Office assumed control of the investigation around 9:30 a.m.
Preliminary findings indicate the crash involved a 2024 Kawasaki motorcycle operated by 35-year-old Michael Wolcott of Riverside and a 2022 International truck tractor driven by 33-year-old Robert McCormick of Lucas, Iowa.
Investigators reported that Wolcott was traveling southbound on NW Mattox Road at a high rate of speed when he attempted to pass the commercial vehicle.
At the same time, the truck driver had begun making a left turn into a local business. During the maneuver, the motorcycle collided with the truck’s front brush guard.
Following the initial impact, both Wolcott and the motorcycle continued southbound, leaving the roadway and striking a utility pole.
Emergency responders transported Wolcott to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
McCormick was not injured in the crash and was released at the scene.
Authorities believe excessive speed and improper passing were contributing factors in the collision.
The incident remains under active investigation by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office Crash Team, including a full accident reconstruction.
Officials have not released additional details as the investigation continues.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. — A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.