Shawnee, OK (March 21, 2025) – Two University of Oklahoma students, 21-year-old Emmaleigh “Emma” Arnold and 22-year-old Aiden Martin, were tragically killed and three others were injured in a construction-zone crash involving a tractor-trailer along Interstate 40 in Shawnee.
Accident Details: According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the students were returning from the Tulsa Aquarium on Friday when a tractor-trailer failed to slow down and struck the back of their vehicle in a construction zone. Both Arnold and Martin died in the crash. Three others were injured. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is investigating the crash, including whether the tractor-trailer driver may be held criminally responsible.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: This crash raises concerns about commercial driver safety and vehicle operation in construction zones. Drivers—especially those operating large trucks—are required by law to reduce speed and exercise heightened caution when approaching slowed or stopped traffic in construction areas. Failure to do so may be considered negligence.
Authorities will likely examine several key factors, including whether the tractor-trailer driver was distracted, fatigued, or following too closely. Investigators will also review the truck’s event data recorder (black box) and whether the truck was properly maintained. They will also examine the driver’s logbooks to determine compliance with federal hours-of-service regulations.
If negligence is found, the families of Emmaleigh Arnold and Aiden Martin may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. The injured may be able to file a personal injury claim.
I extend my condolences to the family and friends of Emmaleigh Arnold and Aiden Martin during this difficult time. I wish the injured a swift recovery.
Source: KOCO News 5 ABC