The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is investigating a tragic crash that occurred Wednesday morning on Interstate 35, claiming the lives of an OHP trooper, a woman, and a young child.
According to authorities, Vernon Brake, 36-year-old Mercedes Bayne, and a four-year-old child were all pronounced deceased at the scene. The collision forced the closure of both northbound and southbound lanes of I-35 for several hours as traffic was diverted to nearby service roads.
Investigators with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol believe the crash may have been triggered by debris left on the roadway by a commercial motor vehicle.
“A commercial motor vehicle lost some type of equipment, or load, or some type of debris onto the roadway. Traffic was slowing down to avoid that,” said Lt. Mark Southall. “We don’t know whether she sought to avoid the debris or if she swerved to avoid other cars that were stopping in front of her, but she swerved across the center median, crossed the cable barrier, where she struck our trooper.”
Trooper Brake had served with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol for nearly 20 years, with his anniversary approaching on May 31. A graduate of the 56th OHP Academy in 2006, he spent a significant portion of his career assigned to Troop S, focusing on commercial motor vehicle enforcement. He also served communities in both Oklahoma and Logan counties.
Coyle Public Schools confirmed that Brake was a 1993 graduate of Coyle High School. In a statement, the district reflected on his lasting impact: “When I think of Vernon, I remember a young man who always had a smile on his face. Whenever he was back home for activities, he still had that smile and fond memories of his classmates, friends, and teachers.” During his time at Coyle, Brake was active in FFA, serving as an officer during his junior and senior years, played both basketball and baseball, and was a member of the “C” Club as well as the school’s 12-Year Club.
Trooper Brake is survived by his wife and two children.
Public officials across Oklahoma shared heartfelt condolences and honored Brake’s service.
Governor Kevin Stitt released the following statement:
“I want to take a moment to honor the life and service of Trooper Vernon Brake, who was killed in the line of duty today. For nearly 20 years, Trooper Brake served Oklahoma with integrity and dedication, and we are forever grateful for his sacrifice. Sarah and I are praying for his wife, children, and all those affected by this loss. We are also lifting up in prayer the woman and young child who lost their lives in this incident as well. Lord be with these families.”
State Representative Collin Duel also expressed his condolences:
“My heart goes out to the families of the deceased,” Duel said. “Sadly, law enforcement and first responders know all too well the risks they are asked to face every day they wear a uniform and serve the public, but it never gets easier to deal with their loss. I’m thankful for the service of Trooper Brake, and I stand with many others in this community in telling his surviving wife and two children that we will be there for them when they need us. My condolences and prayers go out to the families of the other victims of this tragedy as well.”
State Senator Chuck Hall described the incident as a profound loss for the state and community:
“This is an absolute tragedy for our state and for the local community. I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Trooper Vernon Brake as they struggle to make sense of this sudden and heartbreaking loss. My family and I are also praying for the loved ones of the innocent mother and daughter who were also killed in this terrible accident.
“Trooper Brake devoted his life and career to serving Oklahomans and keeping our roads safe since he graduated from the 56th Trooper Academy in 2006. He devoted decades of his life to protecting the residents of Logan and Oklahoma counties. He was a courageous man and a loving husband and father. His loss leaves a hole that will be deeply felt by all who knew him. May his service and sacrifice never be forgotten.”
Logan County Sheriff Damon Devereaux also shared a message of remembrance:
“Our hearts are heavy today as we mourn the loss of Trooper Brake. Trooper Brake worked Logan County for many years and will be missed. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers as well as the other family affected by this horrible tragedy. Trooper Brake’s OHP family should also be lifted up as they too are mourning the loss of their Brother. God Speed Trooper Brake, you were a mountain of a man and a role model to many.”
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
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