Oklahoma I-35 Crash Leaves One Dead After Driver Allegedly Falls Asleep at the Wheel
GUTHRIE, OKLAHOMA — A fatal crash along Interstate 35 in Logan County claimed the life of a passenger Thursday afternoon after a box truck slammed into a parked Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) vehicle in a construction zone.
Crash Details Released by Troopers
According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 2:18 p.m. near State Highway 33 in Guthrie. Authorities identified the driver as Jonathan Bush, 40, who was operating the box truck when it veered into a closed lane and collided with the unoccupied ODOT vehicle.
The passenger in the truck, whose name has not yet been released, was killed in the impact.
Driver May Have Fallen Asleep
Preliminary findings from investigators suggest Bush may have fallen asleep at the wheel moments before the crash. Officials highlighted the dangers of drowsy driving, noting that fatigue can cause slowed reaction times, impaired judgment, and “microsleeps” — brief lapses into unconsciousness that can happen without warning.
Authorities stressed that drivers experiencing fatigue should pull over and rest, emphasizing that caffeine offers only short-term alertness and cannot replace adequate rest.
Highway Workers Narrowly Avoided Injury
Officials said the ODOT truck was positioned to protect workers in the active construction zone, and crews were on foot nearby at the time of the collision.
Troopers expressed gratitude that no road workers were struck, underscoring the daily risks faced by crews along Oklahoma’s highways. Drivers were urged to stay alert, slow down, and respect work zone safety rules to prevent future tragedies.
Investigation and Response
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol credited multiple assisting agencies and wrecker services for their quick response to the scene. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Authorities have not released details on potential charges against the driver but confirmed the crash continues to be reviewed as part of their official report.
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