The Reporter covers Miller, Morgan and Camden County in Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks and is published once per week on Wednesdays.

Published August 27, 2025

Traffic death autopsy

MILLER COUNTY – The death of a man who died after allegedly fleeing the scene of an accident may be drug related, according to the Miller County, Missouri Coroner’s Office (MCCO).

On August 15, the Miller County Coroner’s Office responded to Lake Regional Hospital in Osage Beach regarding the death of Albert Clark, a 54-year-old male.

According to the MCCO, Clark had been involved in a motor vehicle crash near Highway 42 and Crestwood Drive, after which he fled on foot and was later taken into custody by the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Shortly thereafter, he collapsed and became unresponsive. Life-saving measures were initiated, and he was transported to Lake Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 11:03 a.m.

Last Monday (August 18) an autopsy was performed at the Boone County Medical Examiner’s Office at the direction of the Miller County Coroner.

During the examination, a plastic bag containing stomach contents was located in the stomach.

Toxicology testing was performed, and a urinary drug screen presumptively tested positive for THC and methamphetamine.

No natural disease processes, medical issues or traumas were identified that would have placed Clark at substantial risk of sudden cardiac arrest.

This case remains under investigation by the Miller County Coroner’s Office and the Missouri State Highway Patrol Division of Drug and Crime Control. Further updates will be provided as testing is completed. 

“We extend our condolences to the family of Mr. Clark during this difficult time,” said Caleb Shelton,
Miller County Coroner.

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