Oklahoma Troopers In Critical State – Three Oklahoma Highway Troopers that were involved in a fatal crash on Thursday morning before 11:00am have been identified.
The Troopers are Trooper Rocky Barnes #393, a 22 year veteran of the patrol, Trooper Steve Eason #419, an 18 year veteran of the patrol and Trooper Ron Watson #817, a 30 year veteran of the patrol, says the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
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This serious crash occurred on the Kilpatrick Turnpike in Oklahoma City, during a procession to honor fallen Tulsa police officer Sgt. Craig Johnson.
On Thursday morning, a law enforcement march took place in honor of the fallen Sgt. Johnson. His body was brought to OU Medical Center in Oklahoma City of Tulsa. It was during the procession that three OHP Troopers got involve in a crash with an SUV that was not part of the procession, says the OHP.
It was reported that the Kilpatrick Turnpike westbound at Broadway Extension was shut down due to the crash, and eastbound traffic was also backed up. The road was reopened after 2.pm
The three troopers were rushed to the hospital immediately, of which two of them have been released, while the third trooper remains in the hospital because of his critical condition, says OHP
The fallen Officer, Sgt. Johnson met his end during the traffic shoot out early Monday morning. He was pronounced dead on Tuesday. He died from his injuries and his family members made a humanitarian decision of donating his organs to save lives.
Investigation is ongoing as to discovering the cause of the crash, says OHP.
In a press release, Gov. Kevi Stitt says:
“I ask Oklahomans to join the first lady and me in praying for the recovery of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers who were injured, for their families and for all those affected by this terrible accident.
“It is always difficult to receive news of first responders being injured in the line of duty, but it is especially heartbreaking to learn this incident happened during the procession for an officer who was senselessly murdered while protecting his community.”