OHP Trooper Vernon Brake, Mercedes Bayne and 4-Year-Old Child Killed in I-35 Crash After Truck Spilled Debris in Oklahoma

An Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper, a mother, and her young child were killed in a devastating highway crash on Interstate 35 after a truck carrying a heavy load allegedly spilled debris onto the roadway, authorities said.

The fatal crash occurred around 11:27 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8, along I-35 near Oklahoma City, between Britton Road and Hefner Road.

Authorities identified the victims as OHP Trooper Vernon Brake, a nearly 20-year veteran of the force, and 36-year-old Mercedes Bayne of Oklahoma City. Bayne’s 4-year-old daughter, who also died in the crash, has not been publicly identified.

According to investigators, the incident began when a commercial motor vehicle traveling southbound lost part of its load, scattering debris across the highway. Traffic slowed as drivers attempted to avoid the obstruction.

Officials say Bayne, who was driving a small SUV, either swerved to avoid the debris or other slowing vehicles. Her vehicle crossed the center median, went through the cable barrier, and entered the northbound lanes, where it collided with Trooper Brake’s patrol vehicle.

All three victims were pronounced dead at the scene.

Lt. Mark Southall, a spokesperson for the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, said investigators are still working to determine the exact sequence of events.

“We don't know whether she was avoiding the debris or other vehicles, but she crossed the median and struck our trooper,” Southall said.

The crash site, located between Britton and Hefner roads, was treated as a crime scene as authorities worked to piece together what happened. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol’s Traffic Homicide Unit led the investigation.

Initially, officials sought public assistance in identifying a truck believed to have lost debris prior to the crash. Investigators have since located the vehicle, though further details have not yet been released.

The collision forced the closure of all lanes of I-35 in the area for several hours as crews responded to what authorities described as a major and complex crash.

Trooper Vernon Brake, a graduate of the 56th OHP Academy in 2006, had served with the agency for nearly two decades. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Melissa, and their two children.

“Our department is heartbroken,” an OHP spokesperson said, adding that the agency’s focus remains on supporting Brake’s family and fellow troopers during this difficult time.

In a statement, the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office expressed its condolences, saying, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones, colleagues, and friends who are grieving this profound loss. We stand with OHP and honor Trooper Brake’s dedication and service.”

Officials also urged the public to be cautious when donating, noting that official financial support for Trooper Brake’s family will be coordinated through the DPS Federal Credit Union. Authorities warned that GoFundMe campaigns circulating online are not officially affiliated.

The investigation into the fatal I-35 crash remains ongoing.