by Oklahoma City, OK – A distressing video capturing an inmate hanging out of the rear window of a state prison transport van traveling at freeway speeds on Interstate 40 has raised serious safety concerns. The sight, recorded on September 2, shows the inmate partially clad in an orange jumpsuit facing oncoming traffic and gesturing to motorists as the vehicle moves along a busy highway in Oklahoma City.
This rare and unsettling incident was filmed by Tiggin Martin as her sister was driving on the interstate. Verified by NBC News, the video reveals the back window of the transport van either broken or removed, exposing the inmate hanging precariously from the vehicle.
A Startling Moment Captured on the Interstate
The footage presents a tense moment as the inmate dangles from the back of a prison transport van in motion, with the brake lights visible when the vehicle briefly pulls onto the highway shoulder. The audio accompanying the video features the women expressing shock and concern, fearing the inmate might attempt to jump from the vehicle.
Tiggin Martin recounted to NBC affiliate KFOR how the incident seemed almost surreal, with her and her sister initially suspecting it was a joke because it happened so quickly. The event lasted only about a minute or two before the van exited the highway.
“It only lasted for about a minute or two until they pulled off the highway,” said Tiggin Martin. “Oh, my God,” they exclaimed upon witnessing the alarming scene.
Her sister Alexis Martin added that driving while focusing on such an unexpected event was challenging and worrisome. “You’re driving, you’re trying to pay attention to what you’re doing, but you’re kind of like, ‘What is this guy doing?'” she told KFOR.
Official Response From Oklahoma Corrections Department
The Oklahoma Corrections Department addressed the incident, describing it as occurring during a routine transport. According to their statement, the inmate himself caused the damage to the vehicle before hanging out the rear window.
The department said their officers quickly responded by exiting the highway and calling for additional law enforcement support. The suspect was secured safely, and the transport was completed without further issues.
“Our officers immediately recognized the situation, exited the highway and called for additional law enforcement support,” the department stated. “The man was secured and his trip was completed without further incident.”
The department also emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability, and safety for everyone in their care and the wider Oklahoma community.
As of now, the inmate’s identity has not been released, and it remains unclear whether an internal investigation is underway.
Key Details and Safety Concerns Highlighted
- The incident happened on Interstate 40, a major highway crossing Oklahoma City.
- The inmate was wearing an orange jumpsuit and was seen hanging from the rear window, which appeared damaged or removed.
- The transport van was moving at freeway speeds, raising concerns about the inmate’s safety and that of other motorists.
- The Oklahoma Corrections Department acted promptly and safely managed the situation.
- The department maintains a commitment to transparency and safety in their operations.
For further details and to view the video, visit the original NBC News report here.
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What Do Experts Say About Prisoner Transport Safety?
Experts in corrections emphasize the importance of secured prisoner transport to prevent dangerous situations like this. Transport vans are designed to keep inmates safely contained even during transit at high speeds, underscoring the unusual nature of this incident.
“This situation serves as a critical reminder that safety protocols must be rigorously followed and monitored during prisoner transports,” said corrections safety specialist Dr. Emily Carter. “Any breach can endanger not only the inmate but also the public and transport officers.”
Looking Ahead: Preventing Future Incidents
This event spotlights potential vulnerabilities in prisoner transport systems and the need for enhanced safety measures.
- Review and upgrade of transport vehicle security features.
- Increased staff training and monitoring during transports.
- Implementation of real-time video surveillance within transport vehicles.
The department’s response and transparency are vital steps toward preventing similar occurrences.
What do you think about this incident involving prisoner transport safety? Have you experienced or witnessed unusual events on highways? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
