Russell Lathrup II killed in motorcycle crash on Highway 412

Honda Hurricane ran red light at 193rd East Avenue and South Cherokee Street

April 30, 2026 | Catoosa, OK

A high-speed chase in Catoosa involving a motorcyclist fleeing a traffic stop resulted in a deadly crash late Thursday night. 

The incident, investigated by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, claimed one life and left another person injured.

Russell Troy Lathrup II, 24, died after a motorcycle crash involving an SUV at 193rd East Avenue and South Cherokee Street in Catoosa.

What Happened in the Crash?

The collision occurred when a trooper from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol attempted to stop a 1988 Honda Hurricane motorcycle speeding over 120 mph on westbound Highway 412 around 10:15 p.m. The rider, 24-year-old Russell Troy Lathrup II, briefly slowed near the 193rd East Avenue exit before accelerating away. Moments later, the motorcycle ran a red light at the intersection of 193rd East Avenue and South Cherokee Street, striking an eastbound SUV.

• Date and Time: April 30, late evening
• Location: 193rd East Avenue and South Cherokee Street, Catoosa, Oklahoma
• Vehicles Involved: 1988 Honda Hurricane motorcycle and an eastbound SUV
• Agency: Oklahoma Highway Patrol
• Injuries: Motorcyclist was ejected and pronounced dead at the scene, and the SUV driver was hospitalized with injuries

Why Do Police Pursuit Crashes Occur?

Traffic laws require drivers to pull over when signaled by law enforcement. In pursuits like this, investigators review whether officers adhered to protocols to minimize risks. High speeds and evasive maneuvers often lead to tragic outcomes at busy intersections.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), police pursuit-related collisions resulted in 577 fatalities in 2022, the highest recorded in available data.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, conducting an independent investigation is crucial to safeguard rights following a motor vehicle crash. National legal analyst emphasized the importance of thorough evidence gathering.

“An attorney can collect the proper evidence to help prove that a driver’s actions were reckless, which requires a variety of resources,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Your lawyer can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and text records of the liable party. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide victims while vigorously protecting their legal rights and best interests.”

• Independent investigations help establish liability in high-speed incidents.
• Evidence like witness statements and video footage strengthens claims.
• Legal representation counters insurance tactics for fair compensation.

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, highlighted the challenges of personal injury claims.

“It is vital for victims to hire an attorney when filing a personal injury claim, which allows them to negotiate with an insurance company for a client,” Formica said. “Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their clients to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

Pending investigation results, the injured party may pursue a personal injury claim to address impacts on daily life, including medical costs and emotional stress.

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