Oklahoma – A tragic crash occurred on the Will Rogers Turnpike (Interstate 44 eastbound) just east of the Miami exit on August 19, involving an Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) work crew. Preliminary investigation shows a semi-truck drifted off the roadway, striking an OTA employee who was on foot collecting debris. The employee was killed at the scene.
The truck then struck a parked OTA vehicle carrying another employee, who was critically injured and transported to a hospital in Joplin for treatment. The semi-truck driver was uninjured and told investigators he had dropped a device and was attempting to retrieve it when he drifted off the road.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol emphasized the importance of remaining focused while driving, noting that a moment of distraction can have deadly consequences. Troopers and OTA crews maintain a close working partnership, and the loss will deeply affect those who serve on the turnpikes.
The investigation is ongoing, and final findings will be submitted to the appropriate legal authority. Preliminary information is subject to change as the case develops. Condolences have been extended to the families of the workers and the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority.
