A heartbreaking incident has shaken the community of Granite, Oklahoma. Corporal Landreth Emswiler, a dedicated officer at the Oklahoma State Reformatory, tragically lost his life along with two of his children following an off-duty car accident on Thursday. The Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC) confirmed this devastating news through a Facebook post. Additionally, one of Emswiler's children sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Wichita Falls. To support the family during this difficult time, a benefit dinner is scheduled for Sunday, and a bank account has been established to accept donations.
The tragic event unfolded when Cpl. Emswiler and three of his children were involved in a serious car crash while off duty. According to ODOC, the accident claimed the lives of Cpl. Emswiler and his two daughters, aged 17 and 11. His youngest son, only 8 years old, suffered critical injuries and was promptly transported by air ambulance to a medical facility in Wichita Falls for immediate care. The community has rallied around the family, organizing a benefit dinner to be held at the Duke Community Center from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. This gathering aims to provide much-needed support and solidarity to those affected by this tragedy.
In response to the overwhelming loss, the local community has taken steps to assist the family. A special bank account has been set up at Farmers and Merchants Bank in Duke to receive contributions. The generosity and compassion shown by the residents reflect the close-knit nature of the community and their commitment to helping one another in times of crisis. As plans for memorial services are being finalized, friends and colleagues of Cpl. Emswiler continue to mourn the untimely passing of a valued member of their team and the young lives that were cut short.
The impact of this tragedy extends beyond the immediate family, touching the hearts of many within the correctional system and the broader community. As arrangements for honoring Cpl. Emswiler and his daughters proceed, the focus remains on supporting the surviving family members and ensuring they receive the necessary assistance and comfort during this challenging period. The community stands united in grief and solidarity, offering hope and aid to those who need it most.