Three communities are mourning the loss of three men, including a fire chief and a reserve police officer, killed during an annual street racing event in Hartshorne.
Alderson Fire Chief Jim McCoy and Haileyville Reserve Police Officer Clint Lawrence were killed after their car crashed during a race, KJRH reported.
The fatal collision occurred a day after Justin Faulkner, an event volunteer and husband of Hartshorne Mayor Ashley Faulkner was electrocuted on Oct. 31 while prepping lighting for the H-Town Throw Down, a premier organized street-racing event.
"We love these men and we're devastated at the loss, absolutely," said Haileyville Mayor Catherine Bailey-Morgan, who knew all three and their families.
Jason Adams, who lives in Hartshorne, told reporters: "The town is shook. These guys were pillars in the communities. Alderson, Hartshorne and Haileyville are all really close."
He added: "All the proceeds (go) to help build the community back. They've done stuff like build playgrounds for kids, splash pads. Some of the proceeds have gone up for medical departments (and) fire departments to help buy new equipment."
