On Tuesday night, August 26, 2025, tragedy struck in Audrain County when the Mexico Public Safety Department responded to a deadly two-vehicle collision on the 1500 block of West Monroe Street, along Missouri Highway 22.
Authorities confirmed that Harrison Washington, 34, of Centralia, Missouri, lost his life in the crash. Reports indicate that Washington was driving a 2006 Ford passenger car eastbound around 10:33 p.m. when his vehicle crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a 1999 Freightliner truck pulling a trailer.
The Freightliner, operated by a 72-year-old man from Mexico, Missouri, was loaded with soybean meal at the time of the collision. While the truck driver was not injured, the impact proved fatal for Washington, who was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency personnel.
The collision caused significant traffic disruption, with Missouri Highway 22 remaining partially closed until approximately 4:00 a.m. as crews worked to clear the wreckage and remove the heavily loaded truck and trailer. The crash remains under investigation by the Mexico Public Safety Department, who continue to review contributing factors.
News of Harrison Washington’s sudden passing has left the Centralia community in mourning. Friends and family described him as a warm-hearted and compassionate man, remembered for his caring nature, kindness, and the deep love he had for those closest to him. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.