Tulsa, Okla. – A tragic collision on the Interstate 44 ramp leading to U.S. 169 left one person dead Thursday morning. Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) reported that a semi‑truck was stopped on the shoulder of the ramp when a pickup truck failed to stop and struck the rear of the vehicle.
Fatalities and injuries
According to troopers on the scene, the passenger in the pickup truck was pronounced dead at the site. The driver of the pickup was transported to a local hospital; his condition remains unknown pending further medical evaluation.
OHP response and investigation
OHP officers secured the area and began an investigation into the cause of the crash. They are actively searching for the driver of the semi‑truck, who fled the scene before authorities could obtain identifying information.
Impact on traffic
The crash forced the closure of the I-44 ramp to U.S. 169. OHP officials warned motorists to seek alternate routes while the ramp remains shut, estimating that the closure could last several hours as investigators clear the scene and conduct safety checks.
Public safety reminder
Authorities reminded drivers to remain vigilant on highway shoulders and to avoid stopping on active traffic lanes whenever possible. They also urged anyone with information about the semi‑truck driver to contact OHP immediately.
The story will be updated as more details become available.
Original reporting: KTUL 8 (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
