It is with profound sorrow that we report the tragic loss of three lives in a crash on Interstate 35 in Oklahoma City on Wednesday morning. The collision claimed the life of Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper Vernon Brake, a dedicated 20-year veteran, as well as 36-year-old mother Mercedes Bayne and her 4-year-old daughter. The fatal incident occurred in the northbound lanes of I-35 between Britton Road and Hefner Road around 11:27 a.m.
Authorities reported that debris from a southbound truck caused Bayne’s SUV to swerve, cross the cable barrier, and enter northbound traffic, colliding with Trooper Brake’s patrol vehicle. All three were pronounced dead at the scene. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol described the crash as a major collision and a potential crime scene, and the Traffic Homicide Unit is investigating the circumstances.
Trooper Brake was a graduate of the 56th OHP Academy in 2006 and is survived by his wife of 23 years, Melissa, and two children. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol expressed that the department is heartbroken and remains focused on supporting his family and colleagues during this unimaginable time.
