Senator Bergstrom Issues Statement on Tragic Death of Oklahoma Turnpike Authority Employee

MIAMI, OKLAHOMA — Senator Micheal Bergstrom, R-Adair, today issued the following statement regarding the heartbreaking loss of Oklahoma Turnpike Authority employee and Vinita volunteer firefighter Zachary Rinehart, who was killed Monday afternoon while working along the Will Rogers Turnpike near Miami.

“I am heartbroken to learn of the tragic loss of Zachary Rinehart, an Oklahoma Turnpike Authority employee, volunteer firefighter and dedicated public servant. Zac was performing the vital, and often dangerous, work of keeping our roads safe when he was struck and killed by a semi. He was not only an OTA worker, but a proud member of the Vinita Fire Department and the Craig County Technical Rescue Task Force. I extend my deepest condolences to Zac’s family, friends, colleagues and his brothers and sisters in the firefighting and first responder communities. This is a profound loss for Craig County and all northeastern Oklahoma.

“I also want to extend my prayers for Colton Armstrong, the second OTA employee injured in the incident. We are hopeful for his recovery and stand ready to support him and his loved ones in any way we can.

“This tragedy is a painful reminder of the risks faced every day by those who serve the public on our roads and highways. I urge all Oklahomans to remain vigilant, drive responsibly and remember that every person working along our roadways are out there performing a duty and please slow down for their safety.”

###