Payton and Jason Kaminskas Killed by Tractor-Trailer on Interstate 35

Tractor-trailer hit pedestrians following initial deer strike north of Guthrie

November 15, 2025 | Guthrie, OK

A devastating multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 35 north of Guthrie has resulted in the deaths of two individuals from Logan County, as reported by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Payton Kaminskas, 23, of Enid, and Jason Kaminskas, 40, of Enid, died in multi-vehicle incident involving tractor-trailer on Interstate 35 north of Guthrie.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident unfolded around 2 a.m. when a vehicle struck a deer in the northbound lanes at milepost 165, causing it to become disabled in the roadway. The driver and passenger stepped out to assess the damage, only to be struck by an oncoming tractor-trailer. Moments later, a third vehicle collided with the stalled car.

• Victims: Payton Kaminskas, 23, and Jason Kaminskas, 40, both residents of Enid, were pronounced dead at the scene by Guthrie Fire Department personnel.
• Tractor-Trailer Driver: A 34-year-old from El Reno escaped injury.
• Third Vehicle Driver: A 49-year-old suffered unspecified injuries and was transported for medical care.
• Location: Northbound Interstate 35 at milepost 165, just north of Guthrie.
• Date: Nov. 15, 2025.
• Investigating Agency: Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Why Do Tractor-Trailer Crashes Occur on Oklahoma Highways?

According to data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Oklahoma sees about 125 fatal tractor-trailer accidents each year from 2017 to 2023. Over the same period, more than 1,475 injury crashes involving commercial trucks occurred annually.

These serious events predominantly happen on interstate highways and major routes, often due to factors like driver fatigue, excessive speed, or vehicle malfunctions, per the Oklahoma Highway Patrol's commercial vehicle enforcement insights. The FMCSA emphasizes that proactive safety measures can mitigate such risks.

Legal Insights on Tractor-Trailer Accidents

In cases such as this involving commercial vehicles, a thorough independent investigation is crucial to safeguard the interests of those affected. Newsline's national legal analysts offer experienced perspectives on navigating these complex scenarios.

"Tractor-trailer crashes are often multifaceted, with various elements contributing to the outcome," noted Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "An experienced attorney can counter the resources of trucking firms by engaging witnesses, verifying driver histories, identifying eyewitnesses, and evaluating insurance policies, all while supporting victims through the legal journey."

Key takeaways from analyst insights:

• Prompt investigations help preserve evidence and protect rights against corporate defenses.
• Common causes include fatigue and mechanical failures, underscoring the need for rigorous compliance checks.
• Legal representation ensures a comprehensive review of all contributing factors.

For wrongful death scenarios stemming from such incidents, families may seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost earnings, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.

"The loss of a loved one in an accident brings profound grief and financial strain," said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. "Surviving relatives face not only emotional turmoil but also mounting costs that can alter their lives irrevocably."

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