Oklahoma City Woman Killed in Hit-and-Run Crash on I-44; Investigators Searching for Semi-Truck
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — A Sunday evening drive on Interstate 44 ended in tragedy when 36-year-old Loni Cox of Oklahoma City was killed in a devastating crash involving a semi-truck that fled the scene.
Cox, who had been planning a trip to Lawton to visit her two younger siblings, never made it. At approximately 9:30 p.m. on September 7, just north of SW 149th Street, her vehicle collided with the rear of a semi-truck under circumstances that remain under investigation.
The Fatal Collision
According to detectives, evidence suggests that the semi-truck may have been:
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pulling off the shoulder,
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stopped in the roadway, or
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traveling without functioning lights.
Whatever the circumstances, when Cox’s vehicle struck the rear of the semi, the collision proved catastrophic. Her car came to a violent halt, and Cox did not survive. Meanwhile, the semi-truck involved in the crash disappeared into the night.
Investigators Searching for the Truck
Authorities are actively searching for the semi-truck responsible. Investigators believe the vehicle likely sustained damage to its underride guard, the steel safety bar that hangs beneath the back of a trailer to prevent cars from sliding underneath. Detectives are urging the public to look at reference photos provided by police, as visible damage to the truck’s rear may help locate it.
“This was someone’s sister, someone’s family member, and her life was cut short in an instant,” officials said. “We need the public’s help to find the truck involved.”
A Plea for Witnesses
Police believe someone on I-44 that night may have seen what happened. Perhaps it was another driver who noticed the semi parked oddly on the shoulder, moving without lights, or continuing on after the impact. Authorities stressed that even the smallest detail could help.
If you witnessed the crash or have any information about the truck, you are urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 405-235-7300 or submit a tip online at www.okccrimetips.com. The case number is 25-65967, and a cash reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.
Community Impact
Cox’s sudden death has left family, friends, and the Oklahoma City community grieving. She was on her way to reconnect with her siblings — a trip filled with anticipation and love — when her life was tragically cut short. Her story underscores the dangers posed by negligent or reckless driving, particularly on highways where visibility and speed can turn small errors into fatal consequences.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities continue to pursue leads to bring justice to Loni and closure to her family.
