A quiet stretch of Interstate 40 near Czech Hall Road in Canadian County turned deadly after midnight when four young lives were cut short in a violent wrong-way crash.
The victims were identified as Kiercey Hickson, 20, of Stillwater, who was driving, along with passengers Quincy Jones, 19, Haleigh Salazar, 18, and Brad Palmer, 18.
Authorities say they were heading east in the eastbound lanes when a vehicle traveling the wrong direction suddenly entered their path.
The impact was head-on, and the crash erupted into flames almost immediately, forcing a full shutdown of the interstate for several hours as emergency crews rushed in.
All four young adults inside the car were pronounced dead at the scene. Officials described the crash as one of extreme force and destruction.
The wrong-way driver, 26-year-old Michael Cruz, survived the crash and was taken to a hospital in critical condition.
Investigators believe alcohol may have played a role after finding empty alcohol containers inside his vehicle, and they say charges are expected once he is released from medical care.
The community tied to El Reno Public Schools has been shaken, especially after learning that three of the victims were recent graduates remembered for their youth and promise.
