Deadly I-35 Crash Kills Mother, Child, and Oklahoma Trooper

Investigators search for truck driver who may have lost load, leading to tragic collision.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:37am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered car windshield, the glass reflecting a harsh, direct flash of light, conceptually representing the tragic consequences of a highway accident caused by debris.The aftermath of a deadly crash on I-35 exposes the dangers of unsecured loads on highways.Oklahoma City Today

A deadly crash on Interstate 35 in Oklahoma City has claimed the lives of a 36-year-old mother, her 4-year-old daughter, and an Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper. Investigators believe debris or equipment from a commercial vehicle may have caused the mother to lose control of her SUV, leading to the fatal collision.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers posed by unsecured loads on highways and the devastating consequences that can occur when drivers are forced to suddenly react to unexpected obstacles. It also underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect the public.

The details

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the crash occurred on Wednesday morning when Mercedes Bayne, driving a white SUV southbound on I-35, lost control while trying to avoid debris, equipment, or stopped vehicles ahead of her. Bayne's SUV crossed the center cable barrier and collided with Trooper Vernon Brake, who was traveling northbound. All three individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.

  • The crash happened at 11:27 AM on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.
  • Trooper Brake was a graduate of the 56th OHP Academy in 2006.

The players

Mercedes Bayne

A 36-year-old mother who was driving the white SUV involved in the crash.

Ariana Bayne

The 4-year-old daughter of Mercedes Bayne who was killed in the crash.

Trooper Vernon Brake

An Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper who was killed in the collision while traveling northbound on I-35.

Rio Bayne

The brother of Mercedes Bayne, who described his sister as a 'good woman trying her best' and his niece Ariana as a 'happy little girl' who loved singing, dancing, and Fortnite.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol

The law enforcement agency investigating the crash and searching for the driver of a commercial vehicle that may have lost its load, leading to the deadly incident.

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What they’re saying

“She was a good woman trying her best. She had 3 beautiful kids, and it's sad to say her youngest baby died with her.”

— Rio Bayne, Brother of Mercedes Bayne

“She was a cute little girl. She loved singing and dancing, and she loved fortnight too. She usually doesn't do that. She was best friends with my son Orlando, too.”

— Rio Bayne, Brother of Mercedes Bayne

“Her loudness. I used to hate it, but I don't know, I just miss hearing it.”

— Rio Bayne, Brother of Mercedes Bayne

What’s next

The OHP Traffic Homicide Unit is looking for the driver of a truck that stopped on I-35 near the incident and may have lost its load or stopped to assist in clearing debris. OHP said the person involved may not be criminally charged, but must come forward. Anyone with information is asked to call 405-425-2323.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of securing loads on commercial vehicles and the devastating consequences that can occur when debris or equipment falls onto the highway. It also highlights the risks faced by law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect the public, and the lasting impact on the families and communities affected by such senseless loss of life.