The crash happened at midnight.
An elderly Oklahoma driver passed away in Mena, Arkansas after veering off the road into trees. Arkansas State Police have released details about what happened.
Elderly Driver Has Fatal Accident In Mena, Arkansas
In a tragic early morning incident on US Highway 71 south of Polk Creek Road in Mena, Arkansas, an 87-year-old driver, Michael Richard Barnes, met with a fatal accident at approximately 12:38 AM. The accident occurred on a straight section of the highway, where conditions were reported as dry.
Barnes, driving northbound, veered off the road to the right, crashing into a cluster of trees lining the highway. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, but despite their efforts, Barnes sustained injuries that proved fatal.
He was rushed to Mena Regional Health System where, shortly after arrival, he was pronounced dead. Authorities have confirmed that Barnes’ next of kin have been informed of the incident.
The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation, with initial reports indicating no apparent mechanical failure or adverse weather conditions contributing to the crash. Local law enforcement is reviewing all possible factors that might have led to Barnes losing control of his vehicle.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictable nature of road travel, especially for older drivers who may face unique challenges behind the wheel. Further details will be released as the investigation concludes.
