The sudden end of a young life has shaken the community of Sand Springs after 21-year-old Elijah David Crisp was struck and killed while riding his e-bike on Highway 97. The tragic collision occurred Tuesday evening at the turn-around just south of the bridge,
an area notorious for fast-moving vehicles and limited visibility. Police say the impact was severe, leaving little chance for Elijah to survive despite immediate emergency response efforts.According to authorities, a semi-truck traveling northbound struck the e-bike as both vehicles approached the turnaround.
The driver of the truck remained at the scene and is fully cooperating with investigators. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and Sand Springs Police Department are jointly investigating, focusing on speed, lighting conditions, and roadway design as possible contributing factors. Preliminary reports suggest no signs of impairment, but officials are awaiting a full reconstruction to determine the precise sequence of events.
The collision prompted temporary traffic restrictions on Highway 97, with only one northbound lane open near the Highway 51 interchange as first responders worked to secure the area and clear debris. The highway was reopened later that evening, though the emotional toll lingers for witnesses and loved ones.Elijah David Crisp’s death has left his family and friends reeling.
Described as bright, adventurous, and full of life, he was known for his love of the outdoors and his passion for biking, which made the news of his passing even harder to bear. Community members have already begun leaving flowers and candles near the site of the crash—a quiet memorial to a life cut tragically short. As investigators continue their work, residents are calling for improved safety measures along the busy stretch of Highway 97 to prevent another devastating loss like Elijah’s.
