James Sgroi Obituary, Death: Collinsville Man Fatally Struck by Vehicle in Northeast Tulsa, Says OHP

James Sgroi Obituary, Death – A fatal incident involving a pedestrian is under investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) following a deadly collision that occurred late Thursday night on a busy stretch of highway in Tulsa. The crash claimed the life of a man from Collinsville and has prompted authorities to look into the circumstances that led to the tragedy.

According to OHP, the incident happened on the northbound side of U.S. Highway 169 near 56th Street North. The crash took place at approximately 9:40 p.m., a time when visibility may have been limited due to the darkness. Initial reports indicate that two vehicles were involved in the collision, though how they were connected to the pedestrian’s death has not yet been clarified.

The pedestrian, who has been identified as 42-year-old James Sgroi of Collinsville, was fatally injured in the incident. Troopers confirmed that Sgroi was pronounced dead at the scene, with no transport to the hospital required. Emergency medical personnel responded, but their efforts to save him were unsuccessful.

Authorities have not released specific information about how the crash occurred—such as whether Sgroi was crossing the highway, walking along the shoulder, or if he had exited a vehicle prior to the collision. Details on the exact role of the two vehicles mentioned in the report remain scarce, including whether either driver struck the pedestrian or if other factors contributed to the accident.

No additional injuries were reported, and the identities of the drivers involved have not been made public at this time. It is also unclear whether either of the drivers remained at the scene or if any citations or charges are pending. OHP has not indicated if alcohol, speed, or distracted driving are suspected as contributing factors in the collision.

The investigation remains open and active as troopers work to piece together what led up to the fatal event. Investigators will likely examine evidence from the scene, interview any witnesses, and review traffic camera footage if available. They may also analyze weather and lighting conditions at the time, as well as the behavior of all involved parties in the moments leading up to the crash.

Crashes involving pedestrians are particularly concerning to public safety officials because they often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Pedestrians are highly vulnerable in high-speed traffic environments like U.S. highways, which are typically designed for fast-moving vehicles rather than foot traffic. This section of U.S. 169, being a major thoroughfare, likely sees heavy traffic, making any attempt to cross or walk along the roadway particularly dangerous.

Friends and family of James Sgroi are now mourning the loss of their loved one. His death marks another instance in a troubling trend of fatal pedestrian incidents across the state and the nation. In recent years, traffic safety experts have noted an increase in pedestrian deaths, with many calling for improved infrastructure, better lighting, and heightened driver awareness to prevent such tragedies.

As for this case, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol has not stated how long the investigation may take, and officials have said that no further information will be released until more details are confirmed. It is not uncommon for accident investigations to take several days or weeks, particularly when multiple vehicles and factors are involved.

Local authorities may also consider whether road design or visibility played any role in the crash. While the stretch of highway near 56th Street North is well-traveled, pedestrian access is typically restricted or discouraged in such areas, raising questions about why Sgroi was present on or near the roadway at that hour.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol has encouraged anyone who may have witnessed the crash or who has information that could assist in the investigation to come forward. Witness accounts can be crucial in understanding how a fatal incident like this occurred, especially when other evidence is limited or unclear.

This latest fatality serves as a sobering reminder of the risks pedestrians face, particularly on roads not designed for foot traffic. Advocates for road safety continue to urge both pedestrians and drivers to exercise caution—drivers by maintaining awareness and slowing down in poorly lit or high-risk areas, and pedestrians by avoiding dangerous roadways whenever possible and ensuring visibility at night.

In the meantime, the community of Collinsville is left to grieve the sudden and tragic loss of one of its residents. As the investigation continues, loved ones of James Sgroi await answers that may provide a clearer understanding of the night he died and potentially prevent similar incidents in the future.

Until then, OHP will continue working to determine what exactly led to the fatal collision, with hopes of shedding light on the factors behind this heartbreaking event.