DUI Driver in Deadly Crash with Tulsa, OK, Fire Rig Faces Prison, Files Suit
The woman -- driving while under the influence of cocaine and THC -- when her car was hit by a Tulsa fire truck killing five of her passengers is facing decades in prison and suing the fire department.
Keiosha Rucker pleaded no contest to five counts of manslaughter and DUI drugs in connection with the deadly 2024 wreck. Among the victims were an unborn baby and two of her own children, KJRH reported.
When she saw the Tulsa fire truck -- with its lights and siren activated -- approaching behind her, she thought she had time to make a left turn. She didn't.
The fire truck moved into the oncoming traffic and hit the turning car.
Nathan Milner, an attorney, who said his client has been crucified by the public, claims the fire truck driver's actions contributed to the horrific crash.
The traffic collision report showed the rig was travelling 61 to 67 miles an hour when the wreck occurred.
By law, emergency vehicles are allowed to exceed speed limits, “so long as speeding does not endanger life.” The statutes go on to say that no provisions “protect the driver from consequences of reckless disregard for the safety of others,” the station reported.
Rucker was left paralyzed.
Ataja Martin, the only other survivor, also is suing the Tulsa Fire Department, claiming the driver was driving recklessly and caused the crash.
About the Author
Susan Nicol
News Editor
Susan Nicol is the news editor for Firehouse.com. She is a life member and active with the Brunswick Volunteer Ambulance & Rescue Company, Oxford Fire Company and Brunswick Vol. Fire Co. Susie has been an EMT in Maryland since 1976. Susie is vice-president of the Frederick County Fire/Rescue Museum. She is on the executive committee of Frederick County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association. She also is part of the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) Region II EMS Council. Susie is a board member of the American Trauma Society, Maryland Division. Prior to joining the Firehouse team, she was a staff writer for The Frederick News-Post, covering fire, law enforcement, court and legislative issues.