The Missouri State Highway Patrol announced an increase in fatality accidents over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The total number of crashes went down, while the number of injuries held steady. Troopers arrested 139 people for driving while intoxicated, up by one over last year.

Eight people died in traffic accidents in Missouri crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday counting period this year, compared to six last year.

Troopers investigated 299 traffic crashes, which included 140 injuries in 2013. That compares to 350 crashes last year, and 140 injuries.

The Highway Patrol investigated seven of the fatalities. The St. Louis Police Department investigated the remaining fatality this year.

Five of the fatalities occurred in the Troop F, Jefferson City, MO, area. One fatality occurred in each of the following areas: Troop C, Weldon Spring, MO, Troop G, Willow Springs, MO, and Troop I, Rolla, MO.

There were no boating incidents, boating while intoxicated arrests, or drownings reported during the 2013 Thanksgiving holiday counting period.

Officials say these statistics could change if late deaths occur, or if other departments report fatal traffic crashes.

Officers in Troop H were busy during the holiday weekend as well. Troopers participated in Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) and the 20 -Mile Trooper operation.

The following are totals from the enforcement operations:
DWI: 11
Speed: 374
Failed To Yield: 1
Seat Belt: 88
Child Restraint: 7
Following Too Close: 7
Other Hazardous Moving: 1
Non-moving Violations: 13
No Driver License: 4
Driving While Suspended: 2
Uninsured Motorist: 11
Misdemeanor Drug Possession: 23
Misdemeanor Warrant Arrest: 1
Warnings: 1,106
Motorists assisted: 240

Troopers in Northwest Missouri investigated 11 crashes that resulted in two injuries. There were no fatalities recorded in Troop H.