COLUMBIA, Mo. — The truck driver whose tractor-trailer crossed the median of Interstate 70 and killed two women last year has been sentenced to four years in prison, according to Boone County court officials.

Walter Montejo, 27, pleaded guilty in September to two counts of involuntary manslaughter for the Aug. 5, 2024 crash that killed Cindy Helms, 54, and her mother Melvina Colin, 84. Montejo has been held without bond since his arrest and will receive credit for time served.

Judge Joshua Devine imposed the maximum sentence allowed under Montejo’s plea agreement, calling it a difficult but necessary decision.

“Nothing can undo the past,” the judge said. “What I can do is make a decision that is reasonable, just and appropriate.”

A violent multi-vehicle crash

Montejo was driving a 2015 Freightliner Cascadia when, investigators say, he struck a BMW, then hit the median barrier and vaulted into oncoming lanes. His semi collided with multiple vehicles, including a U-Haul carrying Helms and Colin. Both women died at the scene.

Crash reports state that after hitting the BMW, Montejo’s truck:

• Hit the center barrier

• Went airborne into eastbound lanes

• Struck a Toyota Highlander, then a Ram 1500 — sending it airborne

• Hit a Ford Explorer

• Then crashed into the U-Haul driven by Helms

Helms was moving her mother from Colorado to Tennessee when the crash occurred.

Families deliver emotional statements

At sentencing, Helms’ and Colin’s family described the overwhelming grief brought on by the crash.

“We have been overwhelmed by unbearable emotions,” said Debbie Phillips, describing the moment she learned her mother was killed instantly and her sister died in the burning vehicle.

Another daughter, Ginger Gainey, said Colin was “vibrant” and excited for her new life in Tennessee. Colin leaves behind 13 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Prosecutors and defense clash over accountability

Prosecutor Mike Campbell urged the judge to impose the full four-year sentence, pointing out that Montejo had admitted to a prior DWI in 2022 and had been given “second chances.”

Defense attorney Stephanie Burton argued that the crash was a tragic accident and emphasized that Montejo was sober, not speeding, and not distracted.

“He was not on drugs, not texting, not impaired,” she said. “It was an accident.”

Possible deportation

Montejo, brought from El Salvador to the U.S. as a child, may face deportation by ICE after completing his prison term.

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