JENNINGS, MISSOURI — September 22, 2026

A routine traffic accident in North St. Louis County escalated into a violent assault Saturday afternoon, leaving a 63-year-old retired truck driver hospitalized and prompting an active police investigation.

According to reports, St. Louis County police responded at approximately 4:45 p.m. on September 19 to a crash near Jennings Station Road and Shannon Avenue in Jennings.

The victim was identified by his family as Lance Jeffries, a 63-year-old retired truck driver.

Investigators say Jeffries rear-ended another vehicle in what initially appeared to be a minor traffic crash.

According to his family, Jeffries got out of his vehicle to check on the occupants of the other car.

Family members say several people then exited the other vehicle and confronted him.

Video circulating from the scene reportedly shows multiple individuals surrounding Jeffries and physically attacking him.

The footage shows him being punched and kicked and dragged into the roadway while he was on the ground.

The attackers reportedly left the scene before police arrived.

Jeffries was unable to provide officers with a statement at the scene and was transported to an area hospital.

His Family Says He Remains Hospitalized

Jeffries’ daughter, Valancia Jeffries, states that her father suffered significant injuries.

She reported that his eyes were swollen shut, his jaw and neck were injured, and doctors found blood clots in his leg and abdomen.

He is expected to remain hospitalized and undergo surgery.

The family also said they did not learn that Jeffries was hospitalized until approximately 10 p.m. Saturday.

They later saw video of the assault circulating online.

St. Louis County Police confirmed that the investigation remains active.

⚠️ A Safety Reminder:

A traffic accident—even one involving property damage—can become dangerous when emotions escalate.

Drivers involved in a crash should prioritize safety.

• Avoid engaging in an argument with another driver.

• Do not pursue someone who leaves the scene.

• If you believe you are in immediate danger, move toward a populated or secure location and call 911.

Most importantly, a traffic accident does not justify violence.