A Sulphur man was killed early Friday when his car was hit by a semi-truck and rolled on Interstate 35 near Purcell in McClain County, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Troopers identified the victim as 56-year-old David Blasingame, who was pronounced dead at the scene. A second occupant, Adeline Blasingame, was injured and taken to a hospital for treatment.
According to News 9, the collision happened just after 3 a.m., when a semi-truck hit the Blasingame vehicle, sending it into a spin and causing it to roll. Troopers said the semi kept going and fled the scene, and investigators are now searching in McClain County for the truck and its driver. Authorities are asking anyone with tips or dashcam video from the I‑35 corridor to contact the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
Troopers hunting for the truck and witnesses
Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers and McClain County deputies spent the morning combing through the crash site, collecting evidence and talking with witnesses. Troopers said they have not yet found the semi or its driver and continue to press for help from the public. Investigators typically ask drivers to preserve any video they might have and to call the nearest trooper post instead of heading to the crash scene themselves.
Legal consequences under Oklahoma law
Under Oklahoma law, leaving the scene of a wreck that results in death is a felony, punishable by one to ten years in prison and potential license revocation if there is a conviction. As outlined by the Oklahoma Supreme Court, 47 O.S. §§ 10‑102 and 10‑102.1 spell out what drivers must do after a crash and the felony penalties when those duties are willfully ignored. Depending on what investigators uncover about the semi-truck driver's actions, prosecutors could pursue hit-and-run charges or more serious counts.
Travel impacts and safety reminders
The crash shut down lanes of I‑35 near Purcell in the predawn hours, tangling the southbound commute and prompting extra patrols in the area. Drivers are urged to slow down near crash scenes, give first responders room to work, and move over when possible.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol's investigation remains active, and anyone with information is asked to contact OHP. Initial reporting on the fatal crash was provided by News 9.
