Marshal William Lander was killed when another vehicle cross the center line and struck his patrol vehicle head-on.

Marshal Lander was killed in an automobile accident on Highways 5 and Highway 240 at 2330 hours near the northern border of Fayette. Another vehicle crossed the center line and struck Marshal Lander's vehicle head-on. Several people saw the man drinking earlier and whiskey was found in the trunk of his car. The point of impact was in the southbound lane and the only skid marks were left by the police car. The other driver was injured and charged with manslaughter.

Marshal Landers had retired the previous April after 34 years with the department and was filling in for the regular marshal. He was survived by his wife. Interred: Fayette City Cemetery, Fayette, MO.