Kay County – A tragic traffic accident claimed the life of a local resident early Wednesday morning on U.S. Highway 60. Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) confirmed that Delana Counterman, 64, of Blackwell, died from injuries sustained when the vehicle she was riding in left the roadway.
Details of the crash
According to OHP, the vehicle was traveling westbound on Highway 60 when it veered to the right, collided with a culvert and a line of trees, and then vaulted before coming to rest on its passenger side, facing east. The impact was severe enough to cause fatal injuries to Counterman, who was a passenger at the time.
The driver of the vehicle was not injured in the crash. OHP officers responded promptly, secured the scene, and notified Counterman’s next of kin.
Community response
Residents of Blackwell and the surrounding Kay County area expressed sorrow over the loss of a longtime community member. While the investigation into the cause of the vehicle’s departure from the road remains ongoing, officials reminded motorists to exercise caution, especially on rural highways where wildlife, weather changes, and road conditions can present hidden hazards.
Safety reminders from OHP
OHP reiterated several key safety practices for drivers traveling on state highways:
- Maintain a safe following distance to allow ample reaction time.
- Adjust speed to match road conditions, especially in low‑visibility or wet weather.
- Stay alert for unexpected obstacles such as culverts, fallen trees, or wildlife.
- Ensure all vehicle maintenance, including tires and brakes, is up to date.
Authorities encourage anyone who witnessed the incident or has information that could aid the investigation to contact the Oklahoma Highway Patrol at the number provided in the original report.
Looking ahead
The OHP will continue its investigation to determine the precise factors that led to the vehicle leaving the roadway. In the meantime, the department urges all drivers in Kay County and across Oklahoma to prioritize safe driving habits and to remain vigilant on the state’s highways.
Original reporting: KTUL 8 (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
