TrafficAlert: Fatal Crash on I-44/Will Rogers Turnpike in Vinita Shuts Down Lanes, Causes Major Delays — Developing Story
VINITA, Okla. — A fatal crash on eastbound I-44/Will Rogers Turnpike near mile marker 289 at US-60 in Vinita has brought traffic to a crawl Wednesday afternoon, prompting a large emergency response and a warning to drivers throughout the region. Authorities have confirmed that at least one person was killed in the wreck, which is currently under active investigation.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP), Vinita Police Department, and emergency medical teams were dispatched to the scene shortly before noon following reports of a serious multi-vehicle collision. Upon arrival, responders found a heavily damaged passenger vehicle and a semi-truck, with debris scattered across multiple lanes of the turnpike.
Officials on site confirmed that the eastbound lanes of I-44 have been narrowed to one lane at the US-60 exit to allow room for first responders and crash reconstruction experts to work. Drivers are urged to use extreme caution and expect significant delays, particularly between Vinita and Big Cabin, as traffic builds along the busy interstate.
At this stage of the investigation, the exact cause of the crash remains unclear. Witnesses at the scene report seeing a vehicle lose control moments before the collision, but those details have not yet been confirmed by law enforcement. The identity of the deceased has also not been released, pending notification of next of kin.
“The scene is very active, and crews are working as quickly and safely as possible,” said an OHP spokesperson. “We are asking the public to avoid the area if they can and give emergency personnel the space they need.”
In addition to the fatality, at least two other individuals are believed to have been injured in the crash. Their conditions have not been released, but ambulances were observed leaving the scene en route to area hospitals.
The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has issued an official #TrafficAlert via social media and traffic management channels, stating:
“Eastbound I-44/Will Rogers Turnpike is narrowed to one lane at US-60 (mm 289) in Vinita due to a crash. Use extra caution and expect delays in the area while crews work to clear the wreck.”
Local towing services and hazmat teams have also been called in due to concerns over fluid spills from the semi-truck involved in the collision.
The Will Rogers Turnpike, which stretches between Tulsa and the Missouri state line, is a vital corridor for both local travelers and cross-country freight traffic. As a result, the lane restrictions are expected to create ripple effects for several hours across regional travel routes.
Motorists planning to travel through the area are strongly encouraged to seek alternate routes, such as US-69 or SH-82, until the crash site is fully cleared and all lanes are reopened.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available from law enforcement and transportation authorities.