GOLDSBY, Okla. (KOKH) — Two Goldsby firefighters died in a rollover crash early Friday while responding to a fire.
The crash occurred around 3 a.m. on a roadway east of Goldsby. According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the firetruck veered off the road, struck a tree, and overturned. No other vehicles were involved, and no additional injuries were reported.
Authorities identified the deceased as 62-year-old Todd Pendleton and 64-year-old Bryan Jenkins. Jenkins had served as a firefighter for 35 years, while Pendleton had been in service for 12 years. Both were well-known in the community, with Jenkins managing the Cleveland County Fairgrounds and Pendleton working as the Art Director for the Oklahoman newspaper.
Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including the Cleveland County Sheriff's Office, are providing support to the community. Deputy Cary Bryant remarked on the close-knit nature of Goldsby, stating, “This is obviously a very devastating situation for those in the fire service.”
Following the incident, both firefighters will be escorted through Goldsby to Purcell along SH-74 after 1 p.m. City officials have encouraged residents to honor their memory during the procession.
An investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.