Oklahoma Governor Orders Flags Lowered for Fallen Trooper

Tragedy on I-35 claims lives of Trooper Vernon Brake, woman, and child

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:26pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged car part, such as a broken side mirror or shattered headlight lens, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the tragedy of a fatal highway accident.The tragic loss of a state trooper on the highway highlights the dangers that law enforcement officers face while protecting the public.Oklahoma City Today

Governor Kevin Stitt has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper Vernon Brake, who was tragically killed along with a woman and a child in a crash on I-35 in Oklahoma City on April 8th.

Why it matters

The loss of a state trooper in the line of duty is always a somber event that impacts the entire law enforcement community. This incident highlights the dangers that officers face while protecting the public on the state's highways.

The details

The accident occurred on I-35 in Oklahoma City on Wednesday, April 8th. Trooper Brake, a woman, and a child were all pronounced deceased at the scene. The circumstances surrounding the crash are still under investigation by authorities.

  • The accident occurred on April 8, 2026.

The players

Governor Kevin Stitt

The governor of Oklahoma who ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Trooper Vernon Brake.

Trooper Vernon Brake

An Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper who was killed in the line of duty in a crash on I-35 in Oklahoma City.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the crash that claimed the lives of Trooper Brake, the woman, and the child.

The takeaway

This tragic incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks that law enforcement officers face every day while protecting the public. The lowering of flags across Oklahoma is a mark of respect and honor for Trooper Brake's service and sacrifice.