McClain Co., OK – Fatal Crash Shuts Down I-35 Near SH-74

McClain County, OK (July 28, 2025) – A tragic crash involving a semi-truck led to the temporary closure of Interstate 35 near Purcell for nearly 11 hours on Sunday morning, July 27. Authorities have confirmed that at least one person died in the wreck, which occurred around 4:30 a.m. in the northbound lanes near State Highway 74.

According to the McClain County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were on the scene managing traffic when a vehicle struck the rear of a deputy’s pickup truck. The impact caused significant damage to the vehicle, which was described as totalled. The deputy, who had been helping divert traffic off the interstate, was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.

Later that day, officials confirmed the deputy had been treated and released and was recovering at home.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) and McClain County investigators remained on the scene for several hours to determine the cause of the crash. Northbound lanes of I-35 remained closed throughout much of the day but were reopened later in the evening once the scene was cleared and deemed safe.

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the family of the deceased victim during this difficult time, and we wish the injured deputy a full and speedy recovery.

Fatal Truck Accidents in Oklahoma: I-35 Dangers and Victim Rights

Interstate 35 is one of Oklahoma’s busiest highways, connecting cities like Oklahoma City, Norman, and Purcell to points across the state and region. The stretch through McClain County is heavily travelled by commercial vehicles, including semi-trucks. Unfortunately, fatal crashes like Sunday’s incident are not uncommon along this route.

Key risks associated with I-35 crashes include:

• High speeds combined with early morning fatigue
  The crash occurred around 4:30 a.m., a time when many drivers may be tired or less alert.
• Commercial truck traffic
  Semi-trucks, due to their size and stopping distance, can cause catastrophic damage in collisions.
• Traffic diversion zones
  Even with emergency lights and signage, work or accident zones are highly dangerous, especially when drivers are distracted or speeding.

In Oklahoma, victims of truck accidents—or their families in fatal crash cases—may be eligible to pursue legal compensation. This can include:

• Medical bills and funeral expenses
• Lost income or loss of financial support
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Punitive damages in cases involving negligence

For law enforcement officers, such as the deputy injured in this incident, these crashes also highlight the risks first responders face while protecting the public. Oklahoma’s “Move Over” law requires drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency or service vehicles.

If you or a loved one is affected by a serious highway accident, consulting an experienced Oklahoma personal injury attorney can be vital. Legal guidance ensures that your rights are protected and that all liable parties are held accountable.

Start your legal journey by filling out the contact form for a free session with an I-35 accident law specialist.