The Springfield, Missouri community is mourning the devastating loss of 24-year-old Leah Hyde, of Willard, and her unborn daughter, Lark Elizabeth, following a tragic crash on the James River Expressway. Their sudden passing has left family, friends, and loved ones in profound grief over a heartbreaking and unexpected tragedy.
According to Springfield Police, the incident occurred on June 2 at approximately 1:23 p.m. near Campbell Avenue. Authorities report that Leah was driving a 2015 Subaru Forester westbound when her vehicle struck a concrete median divider and came to a stop in the far inside lane. After the vehicle became disabled in the roadway, Leah exited the driver’s side of her car.
Police say that moments later, she was struck by a westbound 2017 Toyota Corolla driven by a 25-year-old woman who was attempting to maneuver around the stopped vehicle. Despite emergency response efforts, Leah was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Tragically, Leah’s unborn daughter, Lark Elizabeth, who was approximately five months along, also did not survive. Her family shared that baby Lark was already deeply loved and cherished before her life was cut short.
Leah is being remembered not only for the circumstances of her passing, but for the life she lived. A 2020 graduate of Marshfield Schools, she worked as an occupational therapist serving children in area school districts. Colleagues, friends, and family describe her as compassionate, gentle, and full of light, with a deep commitment to helping others.
Those who knew her say she had a rare ability to connect with children and bring comfort to those around her. Her kindness and empathy left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
She is survived by her husband, Joshua Snodgrass, along with her family, friends, and community who are now mourning both her and her unborn daughter.
A visitation and celebration of life are scheduled for June 18 at Greenlawn Funeral Home East in Springfield. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Leah Hyde and baby Lark Elizabeth will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
