OU Health doctor relives tragic day where 168 lives were lost

Three decades later, a surgeon reflects on the Oklahoma City bombing

Apr. 17, 2026 at 1:56pm

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A ghostly, translucent X-ray photograph revealing the internal structures of medical equipment and supplies, conceptually representing the clinical response to the Oklahoma City bombing tragedy.An X-ray view of the medical equipment and supplies used to treat victims of the Oklahoma City bombing, a somber reminder of the tragedy's lasting impact.Oklahoma City Today

As the anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing approaches, Dr. David Teague, an orthopedic surgeon at OU Health, reflects on the tragic day when 168 lives were lost. Teague was one of the medical professionals who responded to the scene and treated victims, an experience he says he still thinks about decades later.

Why it matters

The Oklahoma City bombing was one of the deadliest acts of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. Remembering the experiences of those who responded and treated victims is an important way to honor the lives lost and reflect on the lasting impact of the tragedy.

The details

On April 19, 1995, a truck bomb exploded outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City, killing 168 people and injuring hundreds more. Dr. David Teague, an orthopedic surgeon at OU Health, was one of the medical professionals who rushed to the scene to provide emergency care. Teague says he can still vividly recall the chaos and devastation, as well as the heartbreak of not being able to save every victim.

  • The Oklahoma City bombing occurred on April 19, 1995.
  • This year marks the 31st anniversary of the tragedy.

The players

Dr. David Teague

An orthopedic surgeon at OU Health who responded to the Oklahoma City bombing and treated victims.

Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building

The building that was targeted in the Oklahoma City bombing, resulting in the deaths of 168 people.

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What they’re saying

“I can still vividly recall the chaos and devastation, as well as the heartbreak of not being able to save every victim.”

— Dr. David Teague, Orthopedic Surgeon, OU Health

What’s next

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum will host a remembrance ceremony on April 19th to honor the victims and survivors of the bombing.

The takeaway

The Oklahoma City bombing remains a tragic and pivotal moment in the history of the state and the nation. Hearing the firsthand accounts of those who responded to the scene and treated victims serves as a powerful reminder of the human toll of such senseless acts of violence.