Charges underway for truck driver in connection to crash that killed U of O students

Posted on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025 at 11:05 pm

NEAR SHAWNEE, OK – A truck driver is to face two counts of manslaughter in connection to a I-40 crash that killed two University of Oklahoma students, OKCFox said.

The deadly collision occurred on March 21. The Freightliner driver, Carolyn Melendez, was grabbing a water bottle and failed to notice the slowed-down traffic. As a result, she crashed into the back of a car.

The two U of O students inside the car died from their injuries. They have since been identified as Aiden Martin and Emmaleigh Arnold.

Officials reported other injuries, but did not say how many people were injured.

Authorities said charges were filed against Melendez on Tuesday, Nov. 4 in Pottawatomie County. Melendez also has a warrant out for her arrest.

This information is presented as a way to help keep our community safer and is not meant to be taken as legal advice. However, the Oklahoma car accident attorneys at the Abel Law Firm have helped clients secure financial compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident involving another vehicle, contact us today for a free consultation.

Categories: Car Accidents

Tags: Oklahoma City, Shawnee

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