“Unusual accident” between two employees of the state penitentiary leaves one dead and one injured

The Oklahoma Department of Corrections said two of its employees were involved in a shocking traffic accident near Oklahoma City. One man died in the crash early Sunday morning.

Cpl. Robert Sumner worked at the John Lilley Correctional Center in Boley. He was traveling in a state van to guard a prisoner at OU Medical when he collided with another John Lilley employee on Highway 62 at approximately 5:22 a.m.

Spokeswoman Kay Thompson said the accident was a tragic stroke of bad luck on a poorly lit country road.

“This was pure coincidence, a freak accident,” Thompson said. “We still don’t know the cause, whether an animal was involved or whatever happened, we just don’t know.”

Sumner was pronounced dead at the scene. Cpl. Andrew Freppon, who was in his personal vehicle, is being treated for his injuries.

In addition to their collaboration, both men also completed ODOC training in 2023.

ODOC Director Steven Harpe said in a statement that the deaths were “difficult to comprehend.”

According to ODOC, John Lilley has clergy available to assist employees.