Webbers Falls bridge tragedy in 2002 sparks catalyst for change across Oklahoma

On May 26, 2002, the Interstate 40 bridge over the Arkansas River at Webbers Falls collapsed into the water after being hit by a barge, killing 14 people and injuring 11 others.

KOCO

By Evan Onstot Mar 27, 2025

On May 26, 2002, the Interstate 40 bridge over the Arkansas River at Webbers Falls collapsed into the water after being hit by a barge, killing 14 people and injuring 11 others.

"It was an awful day," said Tim Gatz, the current Oklahoma Department of Transportation director who was in his 12th year at ODOT at the time. "It definitely is a day to remember. Still to this day, you know, it pulls emotions out of you."

Gatz says that tragedy served as a catalyst that has since launched Oklahoma's state bridges from next to last in the nation to a top 10 ranking. Getting there and maintaining it, however, is a huge effort.

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