EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, Mo. – Authorities have identified the driver in Wednesday morning’s crash at the Clay-Ray Veterans Memorial Hall as 56-year-old Corrie Wright, a resident of Excelsior Springs. According to police and family members, Wright suffered a seizure while driving, which caused him to lose control of the vehicle and crash into the same portion of the building that was struck in a February incident.
The crash occurred at approximately 7:20 a.m. on Wednesday. Wright, who was volunteering for the Good Samaritan Center, had just picked up food from Price Chopper and was en route to deliver it to the center when the medical emergency occurred. His involvement with the center was confirmed by its director.
Despite the severity of the crash, Wright sustained minor to moderate injuries and was able to walk away from the scene, according to first responders. Police have confirmed that no charges will be filed as the incident was determined to be a medical emergency.
Emergency Meeting Addresses Safety Concerns
In response to the second vehicle crashing into the veterans hall within five months, the Clay-Ray Vets Club board convened an emergency meeting Wednesday evening at 6 p.m. with members of the Excelsior Springs City Council. During the meeting, leaders discussed possible solutions to prevent future incidents, including the installation of barricades or protective barriers near the affected area of the building.
A representative for the Clay-Ray Vets Club confirmed that an insurance adjuster is scheduled to assess the latest damage this Friday.
Although a full evaluation is still pending, an initial inspection found no major structural damage, and demolition is not expected to be necessary.
The building had only recently begun repairs from the February 15 crash, when a vehicle involved in a high-speed police pursuit launched off a nearby bluff and crashed through the roof, landing in the kitchen.
The veterans hall remains closed to the public, and licensed bingo events remain suspended due to Missouri gaming regulations that require play only at the licensed address.
The Clay-Ray Vets Club board says it will continue to keep the public informed as the rebuilding process continues and additional safety measures are considered.
The Excelsior Citizen will provide updates as new information becomes available.
UPDATE: At Wednesday’s evening Farmers Market from 4-7pm in the American Legion’s Parking Lot they will have t-shirts being sold in support of the vets will be sold.The Veterans Club has a set up a GoFundMe, asking $25k to help with expenses in being closed and repairs. Click here for details.
AGAIN?! 2nd Car Goes Through Clay Ray Vets Roof
In a stunning and nearly identical repeat of a February crash, a second vehicle launched into the Clay-Ray Veterans Memorial Hall Wednesday morning, crashing into the same section of the roof that had only recently been replaced. The incident occurred shortly before 7:22 am, drawing an immediate response from the Excelsior Springs Fire Department and
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