In Loving Memory of Tesia Ta

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Springfield community is mourning the loss of 34-year-old Tesia Ta, who died following a serious two-vehicle crash late Wednesday night, Sept. 2, 2026.

According to the Springfield Police Department, officers responded at approximately 10:48 p.m. to a crash at the intersection of Kearney Street and Benton Avenue.

Investigators say 27-year-old Kayle Moore of Springfield was driving a 2013 Chevrolet Traverse eastbound on Kearney Street. Moore turned left into a business in the 400 block of East Kearney Street, crossing into the path of a 2008 Mercedes-Benz traveling westbound. The Mercedes-Benz was driven by 25-year-old Marquis Starks, also of Springfield.

Ta was a passenger in Moore’s Chevrolet Traverse. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the collision. Despite medical efforts, Ta later died at the hospital. Her family has been notified of her death.

Moore and Starks were also transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries and remain part of the ongoing investigation and medical response surrounding the crash.

Police said the circumstances of the collision remain under investigation. Speeding and impairment on the part of Starks are suspected factors, although investigators have not completed their examination of the crash and no final conclusions have been announced.

Tesia Ta’s death marks another heartbreaking loss for Springfield in 2026. Police said the crash was the city’s 12th fatal motor vehicle crash of the year, bringing the total number of people killed in Springfield traffic crashes in 2026 to 13.

Behind those statistics is a family, a circle of friends and loved ones, and a community now facing the difficult reality of losing someone they cared about. Tesia’s passing serves as a painful reminder of how quickly an ordinary night on the road can turn into a devastating tragedy.

As the investigation continues, authorities are asking anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who has information that could assist investigators to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477) or through its online tip system.

At this difficult time, thoughts are with Tesia Ta’s family, friends and everyone who knew and loved her. May her memory remain a source of comfort to those grieving her loss, and may those recovering from their injuries receive the care and support they need.

Rest in peace, Tesia Ta. Your life mattered, and you will be remembered.