Patrol identifies Walnut Grove teen killed in crash

The Missouri Highway Patrol has identified a Walnut Grove teenager who died as the result of a head-on collision Saturday.

According to a patrol report, Carlos H. Lopez, 16, was pronounced dead at the scene of a crash that happened just before 2 p.m. on Missouri 123 a half mile north of Willard.

The patrol report said Lopez was driving the 1999 Pontiac Sunfire when it crossed the center line and struck a northbound 1996 Dodge pickup head on.

A passenger in the car, Darla K. Goetz, 44, was taken to Mercy Hospital in Springfield with serious injuries, the report said.

The report also said the driver of the pickup, Jason M. Whisler, 24, was taken to Cox South hospital with minor injuries. A passenger in the pickup, Sabrina M. Whisler, 22, was also taken to Cox South with moderate injuries, the report said.

Lopez was wearing a seat belt at the time, according to the report, while the Whislers were not. The report said it was unknown if Goetz was wearing a seat belt.

The Springfield News- Leader

www.newsleader.com

Monday, February 6, 2012 6:22 a.m.