Driver Kills Two Cyclists In Sand Springs

By Ashli Sims, for News9.com

SAND SPRINGS, Oklahoma -- Two cyclists are dead and a third is in the hospital after being hit by a car on Highway 51 in Sand Springs.  The Oklahoma Highway Patrol took the driver into custody, believing alcohol may have been a factor.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers said it appears the cyclists were doing everything right.  They were riding on the shoulder and wearing helmets.

"It's horrific is what it is," said eyewitness Sherrie Catron.

Sherrie Catron is one of several drivers, who was on her way home from work.

"And, saw something that turned my stomach and I pulled over and said is there anything I can do to help," said eyewitness Sherrie Catron.

Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers believe the driver of a Ford Explorer veered off Highway 51 and crashed into three cyclists, near 165th West Avenue. 

A woman in her 30s died at the scene.  A man, about 33 or 34, was taken by Life Flight, and died later at the hospital.  And, the third victim, a man also in his 30s, was taken by ambulance to the hospital in serious condition.    

The SUV left tire tracks in the ditch, took out a stop sign, and didn't stop until quite a ways away from the accident scene.

"We were lucky enough to have a witness that was able to stop her in time from fleeing the scene," said OHP Trooper Brian Warren.

And, troopers say this is not the first time they've had to respond to scenes like this.

"You would think as wide open as it is out here, they would be clearly seen. But, we get it all the time," said OHP Trooper Brian Warren.

Catron says the accident had a profound effect on her and the other witnesses who stopped to help.

"Very tight knit group of people who came together, who were complete strangers and now I don't think any of us will forget the other," said eyewitness Sherrie Catron.

And, she hopes drivers will look at the scattered pieces and the lives ruined and remember to watch out for each other.

"There are signs everywhere all over Tulsa that say share the road. Just be cautious, be courteous, look and look again," said eyewitness Sherrie Catron.