St. Louis County is reeling after 23-year-old Katie Shaw was killed Friday night when a wrong-way driver struck her car head-on on Lewis & Clark Boulevard near Highway 67. The crash happened around 10:44 p.m. on April 3, 2026, and left multiple people injured.
Shaw was driving a silver Mercury Grand Marquis northbound when a black Kia Forte came southbound in the northbound lanes and collided with her vehicle. Shaw suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Three passengers in Shaw’s car were hurt. A 23-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman were taken to area hospitals in critical condition. A 22-year-old woman suffered injuries described as non-life-threatening and was also transported for treatment.
The driver of the Kia, an adult female, survived and was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Several motorists were nearby and may have witnessed the crash; detectives are asking anyone with information to contact the St. Louis County Police Department at 314-615-5400.
Police say the investigation is active and ongoing as they gather evidence to determine how the Kia came to be traveling the wrong way. Toxicology and other standard checks are pending as part of the inquiry.
Friends and family describe Shaw as a young woman with her whole life ahead of her. The loss has left a community stunned and searching for answers. Authorities urge anyone who saw the crash or has relevant video to come forward to help piece together the final moments before the collision.
Traffic investigators continue to work at the scene and review witness statements, surveillance, and any available camera footage. Officials ask for patience as they complete their work and promise to release more details when they become available.
