TONKAWA, Kay County, Okla., Nov. 12, 2026 — A Blackwell woman died after the vehicle she was riding in left the road and struck a culvert and trees on US 60 early on Wednesday morning, November 11, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
The crash happened around 1 a.m. on US 60 just east of O Street. A 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee was headed westbound when it ran off the roadway, hit a culvert and trees, and vaulted before coming to rest on its passenger side, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
The driver of the Jeep was injured. A passenger, identified by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol as 64-year-old Delana Counterman of Blackwell, died from her injuries.
No further details on the driver's condition or the cause of the crash have been released. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol's investigation is ongoing.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased.
Intersection Crashes in Oklahoma
This fatal crash happened at US-60 and O Street in Tonkawa, OK. Our Oklahoma intersections page covers intersection crashes across Oklahoma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does seat belt use matter so much?
A seat belt keeps an occupant positioned inside the vehicle and spreads crash forces across the stronger parts of the body, which lowers the chance of being thrown around the cabin or ejected when a vehicle rolls or comes to rest on its side.
What should families do after a fatal crash?
Families can request a copy of the official crash report from the investigating agency, which typically becomes available once the review is complete, and can contact the agency directly with questions about the investigation's status.
How are fatal crashes investigated?
Investigators typically examine the scene, document vehicle damage and roadway evidence, and may use data from the vehicle itself to determine speed and movement before the crash. In cases like this one, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol leads the inquiry.
How long do fatal-crash investigations take?
Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the crash and whether lab or technical analysis is needed, but final reports commonly take several weeks to a few months to complete.
