Lost Cargo on I-35 Linked to Fatal Crash Killing OHP Trooper

Key Details Three people died in a Wednesday morning crash on I-35 in Oklahoma City, including Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper Vernon Brake. The collision occurred at 11:27 a.m. on April 8, 2026, when a southbound vehicle crossed the center cable barrier and struck the trooper's northbound patrol unit. The driver of the southbound vehicle and a four-year-old passenger were also killed at the scene. What Happened Investigators believe the southbound driver swerved to avoid debris that had fallen from a commercial motor vehicle onto the roadway. According to OHP Trooper Mark Southall, it remains unclear whether the driver was avoiding the debris directly or reacting to traffic congestion caused by the obstruction. The specific type of equipment or cargo lost has not been identified. Why It Matters This incident underscores the critical importance of securing loads properly. Unsecured cargo creates hazards that can trigger chain-reaction collisions with deadly consequences. Trooper Brake had nearly 20 years of service with OHP's commercial motor vehicle enforcement unit. Next Steps OHP's Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating the crash. Authorities are seeking information about the commercial vehicle that lost the load. Witnesses can contact OHP Communications at 405-425-2323.