Driver dies days after suffering injuries in Joplin crash

On November 5th, 2024, at 08:56 a.m. the Joplin Police Department Emergency Communications Center received a 911 report of a vehicle crash near the intersection of 43rd Street and south Range Line Road. 

Officers responded to the scene along with Joplin Fire Department and Newton County Ambulance District EMS personnel. 

During the on-scene investigation, it was determined that a yellow 2015 Chevrolet Camaro was traveling east on 43rd Street and stopped at the stop sign at Range Line Road. 

The Chevrolet Camaro traveled forward and crossed into the path of a silver Chrysler Town & Country van that was traveling southbound. 

The driver of the Chevrolet Camaro was identified as Leonard Vanatta, age 82 of Columbus, Kansas. 

Mr. Vanatta was transported from the scene with life threatening injuries. 

The Joplin Police Department learned that Mr. Vanatta died at a Springfield, Missouri hospital on November 10th from injuries sustained in the crash. 

Next of kin have been notified. 

The other driver involved in the crash had only minor injuries. 

The Joplin Police Department Major Crash Team is continuing their investigation of this incident.

This marks Joplin’s 13th traffic related fatality crash for 2024.