Oklahoma State Trooper Among Three Killed in Fatal Highway Crash Linked to Spilled Truck Load

Three people died in a devastating crash in Oklahoma City after debris on a roadway may have caused a vehicle to lose control, authorities said.

On April 8, 2026, at about 11:27 a.m., a vehicle traveling southbound on I-35 lost control and crossed the center cable barrier. The vehicle struck Trooper Vernon Brake, who was traveling in the northbound lanes just south of Hefner Road.

Brake was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver and a four-year-old passenger in the other vehicle also died in the accident, according to Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Authorities later identified the trooper as Vernon Brake.

Trooper Brake graduated from the 56th OHP Academy in 2006 and served the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) for nearly 20 years, with much of his career assigned to Troop S (commercial motor vehicle enforcement).

After his graduation, he also served in Oklahoma and Logan Counties. He is survived by his wife and two children.

“Our prayers and deepest sympathies are with his family as well as the family of the other driver involved. OHP’s Traffic Homicide Unit (THU) is conducting the investigation into the crash,” Oklahoma Highway Patrol said in a statement on Facebook.

The Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office also honored the dedication and service exemplified by Brake in a social media post.

The crash, which occurred between Britton Road and Hefner Road, is now being considered a crime scene, KOCO reported.

According to investigators, Mercedes Bayne, 36, was traveling southbound on I-35 when she took evasive action to avoid debris, equipment, or vehicles that had stopped ahead of her.

She crossed over the center cable barrier, striking Trooper Brake, who was driving northbound on I-35.

Investigators believe debris in the roadway—possibly from a truck that lost part of its load or stopped to assist—may have led to the accident.

The OHP said in a statement that donations can be made to support Brake’s family through the DPS Federal Credit Union, noting that the GoFundMe accounts set up for him were not official.

“For those who would like to provide financial support, official donations will be coordinated through the DPS Federal Credit Union to ensure that all funds are properly collected and directed to Trooper Brake’s family,” the statement read.

“More detailed information on how to contribute through the credit union will be provided tomorrow. We are grateful for the support everyone has shown OHP and Trooper Brake’s family.”

The OHP sought tips from the public but said investigators have identified the vehicle and do not need any more tips as the investigation continues.