A tragic single-vehicle accident claimed the lives of two Weleetka men early Thursday morning west of Henryetta.

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the fatal collision occurred at approximately 12:34 a.m. on Old U.S. Highway 62, about three miles west of Henryetta.

Authorities reported that a 2006 Dodge Ram 2500, driven by 24-year-old Austin C. Peavler, was traveling westbound when it departed the roadway to the left for unknown reasons. The vehicle then re-entered the roadway before veering off to the right and crashing into a tree.

Peavler was pronounced deceased at the scene by medical personnel. His passenger, 32-year-old Dakota I. Baldwin, was ejected approximately six feet from the vehicle and also pronounced dead at the scene.

Emergency crews worked for nearly three hours to free Peavler from the wreckage. Investigators noted that while the vehicle was equipped with seatbelts, they were not in use at the time of the crash.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation, as does the driver’s condition leading up to the crash. The roadway was reported to be dry and the weather clear at the time of the accident.

The incident was investigated by Trooper Bell of the Creek County detachment of Troop B, with assistance from Lt. Southall of Troop B.

No further details have been released at this time. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol continues to investigate.