Tulsa — In a grim morning on westbound Interstate 44, a construction worker was badly hurt and a motorist, identified as 59‑year‑old Rex Benson, was killed when his car plowed into the back of a stopped service truck Friday. The crash happened near the Highway 75 interchange, a stretch of road under active construction.
The construction crew had pulled over near 33rd West Avenue to clear debris when the collision occurred. Their truck’s warning lights and arrow board were on, intended to guide drivers around the work site. Despite those precautions, Benson’s vehicle crashed into the rear of the truck in an area where speed is reduced to 60 miles per hour because of workers and equipment.
Emergency crews said Benson was killed instantly. A construction worker inside the truck suffered significant injuries and was rushed to a local hospital. Another person in the construction vehicle was treated at the scene and expected to survive.
Oklahoma Highway Patrol investigators were trying to determine why Benson’s car hit the truck. They were gathering information on his speed and other possible factors that may have played a role. With traffic backed up for miles, westbound lanes were closed for hours before reopening early afternoon.
Co‑workers of the injured employee described him as experienced and careful, someone who always followed safety protocols. They said the accident has shaken the crew, underscoring the hazards they face every day while working on busy interstate projects.
Drivers who use that stretch of I‑44 regularly expressed frustration and concern after the crash. Many said they slow well below the posted limit in construction zones because of how quickly conditions can change. Friday’s tragedy is certain to renew discussions about work zone safety and how to better protect both road crews and motorists.
Troopers reminded motorists to be vigilant and slow down around stopped vehicles, especially in active work zones. The investigation into what exactly caused this collision continues as authorities piece together the final moments leading up to the crash.
