A Sunday morning drive on U.S. 270 in Woodward County turned deadly when a head-on collision claimed the life of a 19-year-old man, according to authorities. Troopers identified the victim as Noel Almandarez of Laverne. The driver in the second vehicle was not injured.
What Troopers Say
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol, as reported by KOKH, said Almandarez was driving south on U.S. 270, just south of Anderson Road, when his vehicle crossed the center turning lane and hit another car head-on. Troopers said Almandarez later died from injuries suffered in the wreck. The other driver was not hurt, according to the agency.
State Traffic Context
Oklahoma continues to struggle with high traffic fatality numbers. Early 2025 estimates from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration put the state’s annual death toll at about 645, with a projected fatality rate near 1.35 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, which is higher than the national estimate. NHTSA’s brief includes state-by-state estimates that place Oklahoma above the national average.
Investigation Under Way
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is investigating the crash and, as of its initial statement, had not released any additional details about possible contributing factors, according to KOKH. Troopers typically finalize an official collision report in the days following a fatal crash, and any new information on the cause or related enforcement actions will come from the agency.
Family notifications were not addressed in the initial statement from troopers. This story will be updated as authorities release further official details.
