Four-Year Sentence in I-70 Crash That Killed Two Women

The deadly August 2024 crash on Interstate 70 in Columbia, Missouri claimed the lives of Cindy Helms, 54, and Melvina Colin, 84, after truck driver Walter Montejo crossed the median and struck their U-Haul head-on. Investigators reported that Montejo entered a lane when it wasn’t safe, over-corrected, and lost control of his tractor-trailer, causing the fatal collision. The impact led to multiple wrongful-death lawsuits against Montejo and several trucking companies tied to the load, accusing them of negligence, poor oversight, and failing to ensure safe operating practices within their fleets.

In September 2025, Montejo pleaded guilty to two counts of involuntary manslaughter and one count of fourth-degree assault, acknowledging the driving errors that resulted in the victims’ deaths. On November 24, 2025, Judge Joshua Devine sentenced him to four years in prison, with all counts running concurrently. Montejo, who is originally from El Salvador, is currently being held on an immigration detainer, meaning he may face removal proceedings after serving his sentence. The case has sparked broader concerns about trucking oversight, safety standards, and the responsibility carriers hold in ensuring that qualified, well-vetted drivers are on the road.