Drownings up 80% in Missouri, Highway Patrol says

Drownings up 80% in Missouri, Highway Patrol says

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) Deaths by drowning are up 80% compared to last year, according to a Thursday press release from the Missouri State Highway Patrol. MSHP wrote that from Jan. 1-July 30, it has responded to 27 drownings, marking an 80% increase from the same period in 2025. There have also been 30 total water deaths, a 36% increase from last year. The release reminds residents that state law requires children younger than 7 years old to wear a…