Tragic mental health crisis leads to fatality on Highway 266 in Rogers County

Q: What happened near Highway 266 and East 145th?

A: Rogers County deputies are investigating a strange suicide that occurred Wednesday evening near the Port of Catoosa.

Q: What did Roger’s County Sheriff Scott Walton say about the situation?

A: Sheriff Walton reported that two friends were driving from Claremore when the driver noticed the passenger making irrational statements and appearing to have a mental breakdown. Then, the passenger pulled out a box knife and began cutting his own neck.

Q: What actions did the driver take during this incident?

A: Deputies say the driver pulled over, and the passenger exited the vehicle. He then walked into traffic and even chased his friend, who had jumped out to help.

Q: What happened to the passenger?

A: Investigators reported that the man quickly lost blood from his neck wound, collapsed, and tragically died at the scene.

Q: Was there any traffic at the time of the incident?

A: Yes, the sheriff mentioned that there was a lot of traffic, which allowed deputies to speak with numerous witnesses about the event.

Q: Have the authorities released the name of the deceased?

A: No, the sheriff’s office has not released the man’s name yet, as they are in the process of notifying his family members.

There are resources available anytime for people having a mental health crisis. Just call 988: that's the nationwide hotline that's open any time of day.

----------------------------------------

It is our policy to provide resources for anybody considering self-harm when reporting a situation involving suicide or a suicide attempt. 

The Family and Children Services crisis and emotional support helpline, COPES, is available 24/7. 365 days a week at 918-744-4800, with therapists available to talk.

The Mental Health Association of Oklahoma can be reached at 918-535-1213, or 405-943-3700 Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, or anytime by completing this form. 

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a certified listener, call 988.

The Veterans Crisis Line and Military Crisis Line at 988 (press 1 when prompted) connect veterans and service members in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text.

Crisis Text Line is a texting service for emotional crisis support. To speak with a trained listener, text HELLO to 741741. It is free, available 24/7, and confidential.