Carthage, MO (October 22, 2025) — A devastating three-vehicle collision in Carthage, Missouri, on October 21, 2025, tragically claimed the life of 76-year-old Gale Lynn Wade of Joplin. The fatal crash, caused by a repeat DWI offender, also resulted in a critically injured passenger, sparking renewed outrage over impaired driving in the state.
What Happened: A Fatal Collision Caused by Impaired Driver
At approximately 5:15 p.m. on October 21, Mark Anthony Mendez-Hernandez, 22, was driving at high speed when he ran a stop sign at the intersection of Oak Street and McGregor Street in Carthage. His vehicle collided with the side of an SUV driven by Gale Wade, sending her vehicle into a third vehicle, a pickup truck, that was stopped at the intersection.
Emergency responders from the Carthage Police Department and Jasper County EMS arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Gale Wade was pronounced dead at the scene. Her passenger, Glenda Ruth Wade, sustained serious injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Springfield for emergency treatment. The driver of the third vehicle reportedly sustained minor injuries and was treated on-site.
Who Was Gale Wade: A Beloved Community Member
Gale Lynn Wade was known for her warmth, kindness, and active involvement in her community. A longtime resident of Joplin, she was a devoted mother and grandmother who cherished her family above all else. Friends and neighbors described her as a woman who loved volunteering in her church and local community, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew her.
The Tragic Role of Mark Anthony Mendez-Hernandez
The man responsible for the crash, Mark Anthony Mendez-Hernandez, has a history of prior DWI offenses and was driving under the influence at the time of the collision. After the crash, Mendez-Hernandez attempted to flee the scene on foot but was quickly detained by bystanders before law enforcement arrived.
Upon arrest, officers noted that Mendez-Hernandez appeared intoxicated and unsteady. Field sobriety tests confirmed his impairment, leading to multiple serious charges, including:
- DWI—Death of Another Person
- Involuntary Manslaughter in the First Degree
- DWI—Serious Physical Injury
- Second-Degree Assault (Two Counts)
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death
Court records indicate that Mendez-Hernandez has prior DWI convictions in Jasper County, making him a repeat offender and highlighting the ongoing problem of habitual drunk driving in the area.
Public Outcry and Calls for Stricter Penalties
The crash has shaken the Carthage and Joplin communities, with many expressing outrage that a known DWI offender was still allowed to drive. Local law enforcement and road safety advocates have emphasized that the crash was entirely preventable, with one officer stating, “This was not an accident—it was a choice.” The tragedy has reignited calls for stricter penalties for repeat drunk drivers and for more effective measures to prevent impaired driving.
Ongoing Investigation and Support for Victims
As the investigation continues, Glenda Wade remains in critical condition, and prosecutors have indicated that additional charges may be brought depending on the outcome of her recovery. The family of Gale Wade has been left devastated, and the community continues to rally around them with support and condolences.
Funeral arrangements for Gale Wade are expected to be announced shortly, and a memorial service is anticipated to honor her memory.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
