Fiery Alexander Co. accident injures two, destroys

McCLURE, Ill. -- A car and a tow truck collided head-on in a fiery crash in Alexander County Friday night that injured both drivers, the Illinois State Police said.

Elton Provo, 38, of Tamms, Ill., and William Tatum, 52, of McClure, Ill., suffered major injuries. Both were taken to Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, the state police said.

The accident occurred at 9:38 p.m. on Grapevine Trail at Old McClure Road near McClure.

Provo's eastbound car crossed the center line and struck a tow truck driven by Tatum.

Alexander County sheriff's deputy David Dover, the first officer on the scene, pulled Provo from the burning car, state police said. Dover also helped rescue Tatum from the burning tow truck, police said.

Fire destrpyed both vehicles.

Provo was charged with driving under the influence, driving while his license was revoked, improper lane usage and failure to wear a seat belt.