Canadian County, Oklahoma — A devastating wrong-way crash on an Oklahoma interstate has left four young people dead after authorities say an intoxicated driver entered the highway in the wrong direction before slamming head-on into another vehicle.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old Michael Rosario-Cruz, is now facing multiple felony charges in connection with the deadly collision that occurred early Friday morning on Interstate 40 in Canadian County.
Authorities Say Driver Was Traveling Wrong Way
According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Rosario-Cruz was allegedly driving westbound in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 40 when the crash happened.
Investigators say his vehicle collided head-on with another car carrying four young victims.
The impact was catastrophic, causing the victims’ vehicle to burst into flames shortly after the collision.
All four occupants inside the struck vehicle were killed at the scene.
Authorities identified the victims as Kiercey Hickson, 20, Quincy Jones, 19, Haliegh Salazar, 18, and Brad Palmer, 18.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves throughout the local community, particularly among students, families and educators connected to El Reno High School.
Suspect Facing Multiple Serious Charges
Following the crash, Rosario-Cruz was transported to a hospital before later being booked into the Canadian County Jail.
Authorities announced he now faces numerous charges, including:
- Four counts of second-degree murder
- Two counts of DUI causing great bodily injury
- Driving the wrong way on a one-way road
- Transporting an open container
- Firearm possession charges
- Carrying firearms while under the influence
Officials said investigators believe alcohol played a major role in the deadly collision.
In a statement released after the charges were announced, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol stressed the devastating consequences of impaired driving.
“Driving impaired is a reckless, life-changing decision,” the agency said. “The loss of these young lives will have a lasting impact on countless family members, friends, and communities.”
ICE Detainer Issued Against Suspect
Authorities also confirmed that Rosario-Cruz is the subject of a detainer request from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
According to officials, ICE requested notification before his potential release from custody so federal agents can take him into custody and begin deportation proceedings.
Officials have not publicly confirmed when Rosario-Cruz entered the United States or identified his country of origin.
The revelation added another layer of public attention and controversy to an already heartbreaking case.
Community Holds Emotional Vigil for Victims
As news of the crash spread, grieving friends, classmates and family members gathered at El Reno High School to honor the victims during an emotional vigil.
Three of the four victims had recently graduated from the school, making the loss especially painful for students and teachers alike.
Among those attending the vigil was retired teacher Nancy Salsman, who said three of the victims had once been students in her second-grade classroom.
“You just make that connection that never goes away,” she told News9. “They’re always your kids. And when something like this happens we come together.”
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The emotional gathering highlighted the deep impact the tragedy has had across the local community.
Investigation Continues
Authorities continue investigating the deadly collision as prosecutors move forward with the criminal case against Rosario-Cruz.
Meanwhile, loved ones of the four young victims are mourning lives cut tragically short in a crash officials say could have been prevented.
The case has renewed conversations about impaired driving, highway safety and the devastating consequences reckless decisions can have on families and communities.
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