Susan Darst died in pedestrian crash on Interstate 35

Oklahoma City woman struck by OSU softball team bus while walking on shoulder near Perry

April 08, 2026 | Perry, OK

Authorities report that a tragic incident occurred when a bus carrying the Oklahoma State University softball team struck a pedestrian on the northbound lanes of Interstate 35 near Perry.

Susan Lee Darst, 62, died after she was struck by an Oklahoma State University softball team bus on Interstate 35 in Noble County.

What Happened in the Crash?

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol's preliminary findings detail the sequence of the crash on April 8. 

Key details include:

• Location: East shoulder of northbound Interstate 35 near mile marker 187 in Noble County.
• Victim: Susan Lee Darst, a 62-year-old resident of Oklahoma City, was walking along the shoulder when she was hit by the bus.
• Fatal Outcome: Darst was pronounced dead at the scene.
• Vehicle Involved: A bus transporting the Oklahoma State University Cowgirls softball team.
• Passengers: None of the 35 team members sustained injuries.
• Driver Condition: The bus driver received injuries but survived.
• Investigation Status: The case remains under active review by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

This collision underscores the vulnerabilities pedestrians face on high-speed roadways like interstates.

Who Was Susan Lee Darst?

Susan Lee Darst, 62, from Oklahoma City, was identified as the victim in this heartbreaking accident. Details about her life and the circumstances leading to her presence on the interstate shoulder are part of the ongoing investigation.

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian safety on U.S. roads has deteriorated over time, influenced by factors such as increased traffic volumes, vehicle sizes, and infrastructure designs prioritizing speed. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), pedestrian fatalities have risen sharply, with 84% occurring in urban areas in 2023 compared to 59% in 1975.

Common contributors to these incidents include:

• Distracted driving and excessive speeds.
• Lack of dedicated pedestrian pathways on highways.
• Heavier vehicles reduce visibility and increase collision severity.

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) highlight the need for enhanced safety measures.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in pedestrian collisions to uncover potential negligence.

“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.

Bond further stressed the value of independent reviews:

“Having the right resources is essential in any pedestrian accident investigation, helping ensure evidence is collected, reviewed and documented properly so investigators can determine whether negligence played a role.”

Key takeaways from analyst perspectives include:

• Families may pursue wrongful death claims to seek compensation for loss and emotional distress.
• “The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” noted Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.
• Legal representation helps families navigate investigations and protect their interests.
• Prompt action preserves critical evidence in motor vehicle crashes.

Pending investigation outcomes, Darst's family could explore options for accountability in cases such as this.

Newsline's Commitment to Credibility

Newsline, owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., stands as a premier digital news platform with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence.

For transparency, we adhere to our Corrections Policy, offering a 24-hour review guarantee.

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)

Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.