Taney County, Missouri – A devastating accident on U.S. 65 in Taney County, Missouri, has claimed the life of 56-year-old James M. Turk, a resident of Ozark. The incident occurred just before 8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 20, 2024.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP), Turk was riding his 2017 Indian Chieftain Dark Horse motorcycle northbound on U.S. 65, approximately eight miles north of Branson, when the fatal crash occurred. For reasons that are still under investigation, Turk’s motorcycle veered off the left side of the road. The vehicle overturned in the median and continued moving across the southbound lanes before it ultimately collided with a guardrail.
Despite wearing a helmet, the impact of the crash was fatal, and James M. Turk was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency responders and MSHP officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to this tragic accident.
The community is deeply saddened by the loss of James M. Turk, and his family and friends are in the thoughts and prayers of many during this difficult time. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent dangers of road travel and underscores the importance of road safety for all motorists.