Canadian County, OK (May 25, 2026) – Four young adults died early Friday morning, shortly after 12:30 a.m, after a wrong-way collision on Interstate 40 near Czech Hall Road in Canadian County, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
Troopers said the fatal wreck occurred when a driver traveling the wrong direction on Interstate 40 struck another vehicle head-on. The force of the impact caused the vehicle carrying the four young adults to catch fire.
Officials identified the people who died as 20-year-old Kiercey Hickson of Stillwater, along with Quincy Jones, 19, Haliegh Salazar, 18, and Brad Palmer, 18, all from El Reno. Authorities said the group had been traveling toward Bricktown before the roadway sequence occurred.
Investigators believe the wrong-way driver was impaired at the time. Empty alcohol bottles were reportedly found inside that vehicle. The suspected driver survived and remains hospitalized. Charges are expected after release from medical care.
El Reno Public Schools shared a statement mourning the loss of the recent graduates and offering counseling services for students and staff members affected by the tragedy.
Troopers continue to examine the circumstances that led to the fatal accident. Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and classmates grieving this devastating loss.
What Is Typically Examined After Wrong-Way Interstate Crashes
After wrong-way roadway situations on major highways, investigators often review how a vehicle entered traffic lanes moving against the normal direction of travel. Exit ramps, roadway signs, lighting, and barrier placement are commonly examined to determine whether confusion or impairment may have contributed.
Vehicle damage and roadway evidence can help establish speed, direction, and the timing of contact between vehicles. In some cases, toxicology testing and items recovered from vehicles provide additional context about driver behavior before the sequence unfolded.
Traffic conditions during overnight hours are also reviewed because lower visibility and lighter traffic can affect driver awareness. Statements from witnesses and electronic vehicle data may help clarify movements before contact occurred. These combined details assist investigators in building a clearer reconstruction of how wrong-way interstate tragedies develop.
