Please pray for my cousin Rhonda Dugan, Ashley McCullar Faulkner, Cash and Ridge, our family, and all Justin Faulkner’s friends. Justin was a shining light to all that knew him. Love you sweet cousin. You will be truly missed.
PITTSBURG COUNTY, Okla. — Authorities have confirmed that three people were killed, including a firefighter and a police officer, after a vehicle lost control and slammed into a crowd during the H-Town Throw Down event in Hartshorne, Oklahoma, on Saturday. Several others were injured in the tragic crash, which has left the local community in mourning.
According to McAlester Pittsburg County Emergency Management, the incident occurred during a drag race or burnout exhibition when a Volkswagen reportedly lost control, veering off course and striking spectators gathered near the track. Emergency personnel immediately responded to the chaotic scene, tending to multiple victims.
Officials confirmed that two of the victims were first responders — one a local firefighter and the other a police officer — who had been attending the event when the crash occurred.
“Our hearts are broken for the families, friends, and fellow responders affected by this unimaginable loss,” said Leonard Baughman, Director of McAlester Pittsburg County Emergency Management. “These individuals gave themselves in service to our community, and their sacrifice will be felt across all of Pittsburg County.”
One Death Reported Prior to Saturday’s Crash
Organizers of the H-Town Throw Down event confirmed that another individual had passed away on Friday, a day before the fatal crowd crash, while preparing for the event. That death remains under separate investigation.
The sequence of tragedies has cast a shadow over the annual automotive gathering, which draws participants and spectators from across Oklahoma and neighboring states.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have not yet released the names of the deceased pending notification of their families. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and local law enforcement are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether safety barriers or event conditions may have contributed to the accident.
Officials said several people remain hospitalized with injuries ranging from minor to critical.
Emergency management personnel and community leaders have asked for continued prayers and support for those affected.
Community in Mourning
The loss of two public servants has deeply affected emergency response agencies throughout Pittsburg County. Fellow firefighters, police officers, and paramedics have shared messages of condolence, calling the victims “heroes on and off duty.”
Vigils and memorials are being planned to honor the lives of those lost in the tragic event.
“Our community has suffered an unspeakable loss,” Baughman added. “We stand together in support of the families of those who gave everything — and we will continue to uphold their memory.”
Ongoing Support
Counseling and grief support services have been made available for first responders and residents impacted by the tragedy. Local officials emphasized the importance of community solidarity in the wake of the devastating event.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to respect the privacy of the victims’ families and allow emergency personnel the space to conduct a thorough review of the incident.