Authorities and family members are continuing to search for a man who was involved in an auto accident early Friday morning.
As of press time Monday afternoon, Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) said they are continuing to search the area and Arkansas River for Justin Baker. Baker was reportedly involved in an auto accident around 3 a.m. Friday morning near the PawPaw Bottoms near Muldrow.
According to reports, a Jeep driven by Newt Holland crashed into the river close to Paw Paw Cemetery. Holland and one other occupant inside the vehicle were able to climb out but Baker was never located. The driver and occupant were transported to a local hospital where they were treated for their injuries.
OHP has conducted air searches, while dive teams and marine patrol have led water search efforts. The wrecked vehicle was recovered from the waters on Sunday morning.
Family members remain hopeful, conducting foot searches and ground searches with ATV’s and 4-wheelers.
“We remain hopeful for a miracle,” Baker’s mother, Mary McCoy said. “Justin is a highly-trained military veteran, and we believe he has the strength to survive these harsh conditions. Please pray for Justin’s safety.”
The family was also gathering volunteers on Monday to search the Spiro side of the Arkansas River.
“There is hope that he could have made it across the river,” McCoy stated.
Anyone with any info regarding the accident or Baker’s whereabouts are asked to contact authorities immediately.
