Osage, OK (November 15, 2024) – A tragic fatal accident occurred early Wednesday morning on OK-99, approximately 3.3 miles north of Osage. At approximately 4:26 a.m., a 2002 Ford Ranger, driven by 19-year-old William T. Greene of Pawhuska, was involved in a single-vehicle crash. Greene was ejected from the vehicle, which came to a stop in the roadway. Shortly after, at around 4:30 a.m., a 2023 Peterbilt tractor-trailer, driven by 43-year-old Travis R. Smith of Mannford, struck the stationary vehicle and Greene, who was lying on the road.
Emergency responders from Hominy were quick to arrive at the scene, but tragically, Greene was pronounced dead at 4:33 a.m. Despite the efforts of medics and fire crews, Greene’s injuries were too severe, and he was declared deceased at the scene. His body was transported to the Medical Examiner’s Office in Tulsa for further examination by Chapman-Black Funeral Home.
Smith, the driver of the Peterbilt, was treated for minor injuries but was released shortly after, with authorities reporting his condition as “apparently normal.” Investigators are continuing to look into the cause of the crash, including Greene’s condition before the initial accident. Weather conditions at the time of the collision were clear, and the road was dry. Both vehicles involved were equipped with airbags, though none were deployed during the crash.
We would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victim.
Fatal Accidents in Oklahoma
Fatal accidents, especially those involving multiple vehicles or ejections, highlight the importance of safe driving practices, particularly when driving on rural or less-traveled roads like OK-99. This area north of Osage has seen its share of traffic incidents, and this unfortunate collision serves as a reminder of how quickly a single moment of inattention or misfortune can lead to irreversible consequences.
In this case, William T. Greene’s death marks the second fatality in this region within the past month. Local authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant, slow down, and avoid distractions, especially during early morning hours when visibility can be limited.
The tragic nature of this accident also underscores the danger posed by large commercial trucks when they are involved in collisions with smaller vehicles. The force and momentum of these trucks can have devastating impacts, particularly when an individual has already been ejected from a vehicle. Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation continues.
As the community of Osage and surrounding areas mourn the loss of a young life, it is crucial to take steps to protect oneself on the road. Drivers must exercise extra caution, particularly on highways like OK-99, which can be prone to hazardous conditions due to traffic and the presence of large vehicles. While there was no indication of adverse weather conditions at the time of this crash, drivers should always prepare for sudden changes that may lead to unsafe driving conditions.