The impact reportedly caused the SUV to cross the center line, at which point their vehicle was hit broadside by a Chevrolet Tahoe, after which the Traverse veered off the road and overturned.
Benjamin Verde, 4, Eric Verde, 7, and Isaac Verde, 2, were pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Globe.
Benjamin was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, Ozarks First reported.
Leticia Verde was transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Joplin with moderate injuries.
Five occupants of the other SUV were also injured in the collision. Shawna Campbell, age undisclosed, was taken by medical helicopter to Mercy Hospital in Joplin with serious injuries, the patrol told the Globe.
Bentley Stephens and Darby Presley, ages undisclosed, and Harley Stephens, 15, were taken by ambulance to Mercy Hospital in Joplin, all with serious injuries. The driver, Michael Stephens, 38, was also taken the hospital by ambulance. He sustained moderate injuries, the Globe reported.
The driver of the tractor-trailer, Stephen J. Shaffer, 53, of Sarcoxie, was reportedly not injured
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