Update: Third person dies from injuries sustained in Meridian accident

A three-car accident occurred shortly before 8 p.m. just north of Refinery Road on Highway 81 on June 17. According to an Oklahoma Highway Patrol report, a 2006 Mini Cooper being driven by Kennedy L. Caldwell, 20, of Denton, Texas, was traveling southbound on Highway 81 when she attempted to pass a 2002 Toyota Camry driven by Jerry W. Pardue, 74, of Duncan. While attempting to pass, the Mini Cooper hit a 2005 Chevy Silverado driven by John K. Salazar, 50, of Waurika, head-on. The Camry then hit the Mini Cooper before departing the roadway. Caldwell and her passenger, Connor C. Slocum, 19, of Aubrey, Texas were pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.

Pardue was flown to OU Medical Center where he was admitted in critical condition with head, trunk internal and trunk external injuries. An update by the Pardue family on social media Monday afternoon said Jerry Pardue was still at OU Medical Center and was in a coma.

Salazar was transported to Duncan Regional Hospital where he was then flown to OU Medical Center. He was admitted in fair condition with head, leg and trunk internal injuries. An update provided by the OHP on June 22 said Salazar died early Tuesday morning at OU Medical Center from injuries sustained in the collision. Salazar’s passenger, a 10-year-old boy, also from Waurika, was transported to Duncan Regional Hospital where he was treated and released with head and trunk internal injuries.